SA vs PAK (3rd ODI) – Highlights
In this article, we will discuss the thrilling 3rd ODI between PAK and SA, played under lights in Johannesburg on December 22, 2024, as part of Pakistan’s tour of South Africa. This high-stakes encounter saw Pakistan claim a 36-run victory via the DLS method in a rain-affected match. Pakistan, batting first, set an imposing total of 308/9 in their allotted 47 overs, thanks to a collective batting effort. In reply, South Africa fought valiantly, but their chase ended at 271 in 42 overs, falling short of the revised target.
Saim Ayub was the standout performer, anchoring the innings with a splendid century, scoring 101 off 94 balls. His knock, laced with 13 boundaries and two sixes, showcased his ability to pace an innings while maintaining aggression. He was well-supported by skipper Mohammad Rizwan, who scored a fluent 53 off 52 balls, and Babar Azam, who contributed a steady 52 off 71 deliveries.
Salman Agha played a crucial cameo, smashing a brisk 48 off just 33 balls, lifting Pakistan’s scoring rate in the latter stages. Despite occasional stumbles, including ducks from Abdullah Shafique and Kamran Ghulam, Pakistan’s batting depth ensured they crossed the 300-run mark.
South Africa’s bowling was spearheaded by Kagiso Rabada, who claimed three wickets for 56 runs. Bjorn Fortuin and Marco Jansen chipped in with two wickets each, though they struggled to contain Pakistan’s middle-order assault.
Chasing a revised target of 308 due to rain interruptions, South Africa started aggressively but lost wickets at regular intervals. Temba Bavuma (8 off 6) and Tony de Zorzi (26 off 23) fell early, leaving the hosts in a precarious position.
Heinrich Klaasen played a counter-attacking innings, smashing a blistering 81 off just 43 balls, including 12 boundaries and two sixes. His innings kept South Africa in the hunt, but his dismissal in the 29th over by Shaheen Shah Afridi proved to be a turning point.
Rassie van der Dussen (35 off 52) and Marco Jansen (26 off 22) provided brief resistance, but they failed to build partnerships. Corbin Bosch remained unbeaten on 40 off 44 balls, but the lower order crumbled under pressure.
Sufiyan Muqeem was the star with the ball for PAK, claiming four crucial wickets for 52 runs in his eight overs. Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah contributed with two wickets apiece, effectively dismantling South Africa’s batting lineup.
Pakistan’s fielding and bowling unit delivered a disciplined performance, complementing their batsmen’s efforts. Despite a valiant fight from SA, Pakistan’s all-round excellence ensured a comprehensive win, sealing the series and providing a fitting conclusion to an enthralling ODI encounter.
South Africa vs Pakistan Scoreboard
Pakistan– 308/9 (47/47)
South Africa– 271(42/47)
Result – Pakistan won by 36 runs (DLS method)
Player of the Match – Saim Ayub
SA vs PAK Playing XI
South Africa
Tony de Zorzi, Temba Bavuma(C), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen(WK), David Miller, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Bjorn Fortuin, Kagiso Rabada, Kwena Maphaka
Pakistan
Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan(C)(WK), Kamran Ghulam, Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Sufiyan Muqeem
Disclaimer: These match highlights reflect the author’s insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the points discussed and form their own conclusions.