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Agha’s All-Round Brilliance and Ayub’s Century Propel Pakistan to Victory
Pakistan Takes Lead with a Thrilling Win Over South Africa
In a gripping contest in Paarl on Tuesday (December 17), Pakistan edged out South Africa by three wickets in the opening ODI of the series. The heroics of Saim Ayub and Salman Agha turned the tide for Pakistan, as the team successfully chased down a competitive target of 240 with just three balls to spare.
South Africa’s Innings: A Promising Start, A Stumbling Finish
De Zorzi and Rickelton Lay the Foundation
Electing to bat first, South Africa’s openers Tony de Zorzi and Ryan Rickelton gave the hosts a dream start. The pair added 70 runs within the first 10 overs, keeping Pakistan’s bowlers under pressure. However, the introduction of spin turned the game on its head.
Salman Agha’s Four-Wicket Haul
Salman Agha’s arm balls wreaked havoc as South Africa collapsed from a strong 70/0 to 88/4. Agha’s wickets included the dangerous De Zorzi, Rickelton, Rassie van der Dussen, and Tristan Stubbs. Heinrich Klaasen, however, steadied the innings with a well-crafted 86, supported by Aiden Markram’s patient knock.
Lower Order Contributions
Klaasen’s partnership with Marco Jansen and later Kagiso Rabada added crucial runs to the scoreboard. But Pakistan’s spinners, led by Abrar Ahmed (2/32), ensured that South Africa was restricted to 239/9 in their 50 overs.
Pakistan’s Chase: A Tale of Resilience and Brilliance
Early Setbacks
Pakistan’s chase began on a shaky note as Marco Jansen bowled Abdullah Shafique for a duck. The South African bowlers, led by Jansen and Ottneil Baartman, maintained tight lines, restricting Pakistan to just 32/1 at the end of the first powerplay. Babar Azam’s dismissal for 23, coupled with Mohammad Rizwan’s and Kamran Ghulam’s quick exits, left Pakistan reeling at 60/4 in the 20th over.
Ayub and Agha to the Rescue
Saim Ayub and Salman Agha then took charge, forming a game-changing 141-run partnership. Ayub, who initially played a cautious knock, accelerated brilliantly after his half-century, striking two sixes in a single over off Baartman. His second ODI century came off 112 balls, a testament to his class and composure.
Agha’s Calm Under Pressure
While Ayub departed after a scintillating 109, Agha’s unbeaten 82 ensured Pakistan stayed on course. Despite losing quick wickets towards the end, including Shaheen Afridi’s duck, Agha’s crucial six off Tabraiz Shamsi and a streaky boundary off Jansen in the penultimate over sealed the game for Pakistan.
Key Moments and Turning Points
South Africa’s Collapse
A promising start was undone by Salman Agha’s magical spell, which broke South Africa’s backbone.
Ayub and Agha’s Partnership
The 141-run stand between Ayub and Agha was the cornerstone of Pakistan’s victory.
What Lies Ahead
With Pakistan taking a 1-0 lead in the series, the focus now shifts to the second ODI. South Africa will look to bounce back, while Pakistan aims to continue their momentum.
