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Pakistan defeated South Africa by 36 runs in the third ODI at The Wanderers on December 22, 2024, with the help of Saim Ayub’s great knock. With this win, Pakistan secured a 3-0 series sweep, becoming the first team to achieve this feat against South Africa on their home turf.

Pakistan achieved a historic 3-0 series sweep against South Africa with a 36-run victory in the third ODI at The Wanderers on December 22, 2024. This marked the first time any team has swept South Africa in an ODI series on their home soil.

Saim Ayub Leads the Charge

Saim Ayub was the star of the show, scoring a brilliant 101 off 94 balls—his second century of the series and third in just nine ODIs. His remarkable performance showcased his rapid rise in international cricket. Captain Mohammad Rizwan (53 off 52) and Babar Azam (52 off 71) also played vital roles, helping Pakistan post a strong total of 308/9 in a rain-shortened 47-over match.

South Africa’s Fightback and Muqeem’s Magic

Chasing 308 under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method, South Africa struggled early but found hope in Heinrich Klaasen’s explosive 81 off 43 balls. Despite his efforts, South Africa were bowled out with five overs to spare. Debutant wrist-spinner Sufiyan Muqeem was the hero with the ball for Pakistan, taking 4/52 and dismantling South Africa’s middle order.

World Test Championship (WTC) Final Race

This ODI series loss is a setback for South Africa but the hope to reach the World Test Championship final is still alive. They now face a must-win scenario in at least one of the two upcoming Tests against Pakistan, starting in Pretoria on Thursday.

What’s Next?

Pakistan’s dominant performance underscores their growing strength in international cricket. With momentum on their side, they look ahead to the two-Test series, while South Africa will aim to bounce back and keep their World Test Championship dreams alive. They are at number 1 right now.

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