Pakistan clinches series as Abrar Ahmed strangles South Africa
Pakistan completed a compelling 7-wicket victory in the third ODI, sealing a 2-1 series win over South Africa in Faisalabad. The bold performance was anchored by leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed, whose career-best figures of 4-27 dismantled the visitors’ lineup and left South Africa reeling at 143 all out.
Abrar Ahmed delivers a career-best performance
Ahmed’s variations and relentless accuracy troubled South Africa’s inexperienced batting order from the outset. His spell, backed by patient fielding and smart captaincy, exposed the limitations of the Proteas’ top and middle order, ensuring the chase never gained momentum. The 23-year-old produced a235-degree mix of googlies, leg breaks, and quicker deliveries that deceived several batsmen and delivered crucial breakthroughs for Pakistan.
Pakistan’s chase: steady and efficient
Chasing a modest target, Pakistan began cautiously before accelerating at the right moments. Openers laid a solid foundation, and once the partnership stabilized, Pakistan’s middle order finished the job with relative ease, cruising to victory with more than 20 overs to spare. The win underscored Pakistan’s balance, combining a potent bowling unit with a composed batting display under pressure.
Key moments that defined the match
- Abrar Ahmed’s early strike-making spell that jolted South Africa’s innings.
- Smart use of the field and bowling changes that kept the Proteas on the back foot.
- A measured chase by Pakistan’s openers, followed by a steady climb from the middle order.
Impact on the series and team morale
The win capped a tense three-match series, with Pakistan reasserting themselves as a formidable home side. South Africa, aiming to adapt quickly to conditions, showed glimpses of resilience but failed to convert early starts into a larger score, ultimately faltering against a disciplined Pakistan attack.
What this means going forward
Pakistan will take confidence from a well-rounded performance, especially with a young spine in the bowling lineup gaining valuable experience. For South Africa, the series offers lessons in handling pace and spin under subcontinental conditions. As both teams look ahead, the development of inexperienced batsmen for South Africa remains a key area to monitor.
Bottom line
In Faisalabad, Abrar Ahmed stole the show with a career-best haul, guiding Pakistan to a series-clinching victory and reaffirming their credentials in ODI cricket. The victory offers a blueprint for success: tight bowling, smart leadership, and a coherent chase that minimizes risk while maximizing scoring opportunities.
