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Faisalabad: Pakistan defeated South Africa by seven wickets in the third and final One Day International at Faisalabad on Saturday, sealing the series 2–1 in a commanding display. The hosts comfortably chased the 144-run target in just 25.1 overs, with 149 balls to spare.
After bowling out South Africa for 143 earlier in the day, Pakistan’s batting lineup made light work of the modest target. Saim Ayub was the star with the bat, scoring a fluent 77 runs, anchoring the chase with maturity and confidence on a batting-friendly pitch at Iqbal Stadium. The young opener’s innings, laced with crisp boundaries and solid stroke play, ensured Pakistan’s dominance from the start.
The openers provided a steady foundation before the middle order ensured a clinical finish. The victory reflected Pakistan’s control in both departments after their disciplined bowling effort set the stage for a comfortable chase.
Earlier, South Africa struggled throughout their innings after choosing to bat first. The visitors lost wickets at regular intervals and never recovered from Pakistan’s early breakthroughs. Fast bowler Aabar Khan continued his impressive form, claiming four wickets and dismantling the top order. Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Nawaz, and Salman Ali Agha chipped in with two wickets each to restrict South Africa to 143 in 37.5 overs.
South Africa’s batting lineup once again faltered against Pakistan’s well-balanced attack. Their inability to form partnerships and adjust to the conditions resulted in another collapse, with the scoring rate staying below four runs per over.
In response, Pakistan batted aggressively but with composure. Saim Ayub’s 77-run knock was complemented by sensible batting from the middle order, which guided the team to victory with ease. The performance underscored Pakistan’s growing consistency in limited-overs cricket, especially on home soil.
This win also marked Pakistan’s first bilateral ODI series victory over South Africa since 2021. With the series tied 1–1 before the Faisalabad decider, this emphatic triumph proved crucial. A lively home crowd at Iqbal Stadium celebrated Pakistan’s clinical display, marking a strong finish to the three-match contest.
For South Africa, the defeat exposed persistent issues in their middle order and their struggle to adapt to subcontinent conditions. The visitors will need to reassess their approach as they prepare for future assignments.
Pakistan’s comprehensive win in Faisalabad not only clinched the ODI series but also sent a strong message ahead of upcoming international fixtures. With Saim Ayub’s breakout performance and Aabar Ahmed’s match-winning spell, Pakistan showcased balance, confidence, and renewed dominance on home turf.
