A magnificent century, scored by 22-year-old Ayub, gave Pakistan a thrilling victory over South Africa at the first ODI.
Pakistan’s young opener Saim Ayub flaunted his awesome talent with a spectacular ton on Tuesday, leading their team through sheer determination with a thrilling three-wicket victory over South Africa in the first ODI at Boland Park, Paarl.
His beautiful 109 runs off 119 balls was his second hundred in just seven ODIs, laying the foundation for Pakistan’s victory as the visitors chased down the total of 239-9.
A fifth wicket stand of 141 runs off 133 balls for the fifth wicket with Salman Ali Agha turned the game in Pakistan’s favour as they struggled initially to score and fell behind the required run rate as South Africa’s bowlers held early sway
Saim battered South Africa quick Ottniel Baartman for 17 runs in four balls in the 35th over to kickstart the chase and offer Pakistan sight of the finish line.
Saim, who struck 10 fours and three sixes, holed out to a catch at deep fine leg off Kagiso Rabada, with 39 runs needed and eight overs remaining.
Two more wickets then fell quickly to put the brakes on Pakistan’s march and offered home fans hope of an unlikely comeback, but Salman’s unbeaten 82 saw Pakistan home in a close finish.
South Africa, who won the toss and chose to bat, slumped from 70-0 to 88-4 as part-time offspinner Salman ran through their top order, finishing with 4-32 in eight overs.
The home side had Heinrich Klaasen to thank for being able to post a competitive total as he hit 86 from 97 balls to steady the innings in a 73-run partnership for the fifth wicket with Aiden Markram, who scored 35.