In a thrilling conclusion to their ODI series against South Africa, Pakistan achieved a clean sweep with a 3-0 victory after winning the third match by 36 runs using the DLS method on Sunday. The match took place at the Wanderers, where rain reduced the game to 47 overs, allowing Pakistan to set a target of 308 runs by posting a score of 308-9. In response, South Africa fell short, getting all out for 271 runs in 42 overs.

After losing the toss, Pakistan opted to bat first and suffered an early setback, losing Abdullah Shafique for just one run in the first over. The innings gained momentum with standout performances, particularly from opener Saim Ayub, who scored an impressive 101 runs off 94 balls. He formed significant partnerships, including a 114-run stand for the second wicket with Babar Azam, who contributed 52 runs in 71 balls. Additionally, Ayub collaborated for a crucial 93-run third-wicket partnership with captain Mohammad Rizwan, who reached 53 runs off 52 balls. Ayub, who had previously made 109 runs in the first ODI, was eventually dismissed when he was caught behind off the bowling of debutant Corbin Bosch. His innings included 13 boundaries and two sixes. Salman Agha made a valuable contribution as well, scoring 48 runs off just 33 balls. In the bowling department for the hosts, Kagiso Rabada shone, taking three wickets for 56 runs.

South Africa’s response was spearheaded by Heinrich Klaasen, who emerged as the top scorer with a brisk 81 runs off 43 balls. Alongside him, Bosch was not out at 40, but it was not enough to secure a win against Pakistan’s bowling attack. Notably, spinner Sufiyan Muqeem excelled, claiming 4 wickets for 52 runs in his eight-over spell.

Having already clinched the ODI series after victories in the first match by three wickets and the second by 81 runs, Pakistan’s dominance in this format has been impressive. The series against South Africa saw the visitors on a high note, while the host team had triumphed in the preceding three-match T20 series 2-0. The teams are set to continue their competitive spirit with a two-match test series that commences on Thursday at Centurion. With this win, Pakistan has now secured five consecutive bilateral ODI series victories, a promising sign as they prepare to host the Champions Trophy in February.