In an epic conclusion of the ODI series, Pakistan accomplished the historic achievement of defeating South Africa by 3-0 in the third ODI owing to a comfortable win under DLS (Duckworth-Lewis-Stern) method. Since it was a world series, the one day match played at Johannesburg was cut short because of heavy rains but Pakistan’s determined character won them the series despite of injuries.
Reinforcement
South Africa entered the match hoping to earn back respect after losing the first two contests amid variations in the weather. The third ODI was intended to be a decisive game for both teams as they fought for a series victory. Unfortunately, the weather brought an end to this contest Australian players have always been less perturbed by the rains. Thus, the Australian team was ready for the rains. The game was called off, and the rain breaks meant an entire 50-over game was declared impractical, which led to the use of consideration of DL method, a blueprint that governs how to update a target when wickets are tallied and covers are used to shield.
Given that they had already taken the first two matches, Pakistan had every reason to believe that they had the series well under control. They had been in outstanding form with the important members of the party stepping up when required during every match, the last ODI didn’t change the narrative.
The sense of struggle of South Africa
South African innings began soundly with the first pair words cuts , Quinton de Kock & Aiden Markram making good addition.
The batting has collapsed since Pakistan’s bowlers were getting wickets at regular intervals. For Pakistan, the primary spearhead was Shadab Khan, who picked two crucial wickets and prevented South Africa from going further. The South African side had no answer to the nasty combination of Pakistan’s contacts as well as fielders who wouldn’t let the run rate spiral out of control.
The match came to a pause due to the wet conditions and this was crucial because South African side was at 180 for 5 in 35 overs. For them, however, the rain proved to be a disadvantage, because the target set for Pakistan under DLS conditions was far more easy than the total South Africa hoped to finish on.
Pakistan’s Response
Once the rain stopped, Pakistan began the chase as Indian top order has always done. The rain meanwhile altered the South African target which they were to chase and led to reduced overs to get the required runs. Nevertheless, it did not unsettle Pakistan’s openers. Pakistan’s key batsmen, Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam so far furthered Pakistan’s innings throughout the innings without any sign of stress.
Of course not converting dot balls into runs was not an option as Babar Azam made quite clear while hardly missing the required rate. Zaman was able to assist well as he looked to punish the bowlers every time they were over ambitious and even some half decent balls for a boundary.
There was no need for the middle order of Pakistan to play as the openers almost single-handedly took the team to their target.
The bowlers of South Africa stared in bewilderment as Pakistan went for a goal, and it seemed possible every time. It was an easy win for Pakistan once they hit the mark to the delight of their fans. The great sweep was completed and it ended a good tour for Pakistan cricketers.
This win will be remembered.
This completion stands out as a huge achievement for Pakistan as well. This was the first time Pakistan has beaten South Africa in such a significant ODI series recently. Their convincing wins were largely attributed to their batsmen and bowlers showing equity in the game. Numerous players played well in every game which includes Babar Azam, Shadab Khan, and Fakhar Zaman who contributed to the historical win for Pakistan in South Africa.
Having been victorious against all odds this win has raised the level of confidence amongst the players ahead of their international assignment as a team intends to ride on the momentum. This win was enough to prove that Pakistan has the ability and potential to win matches abroad which places the team in the list of those to watch for in coming years.
To sum it all up.
Pakistan in the third match played by a DLS method clinched the series not only recording a victory but also proved their potency and endurance as a cricket playing nation against South Africa.
The series ended on a high note for the team. The young players gained a lot of confidence as the historic 3-0 sweep not only secured the series victory but also improved the team’s overall performance. Pakistan cricket team ensured their status as one of the powerhouses in the modern era of world cricket through a combination of aggressive batting, effective bowling, and outstanding fielding.
If you are interested for more: South Africa vs Pakistan 3rd ODI Highlights: Pakistan Secures Historic Sweep with DLS Victory Viduthalai Part 2 Box Office Collection Day 2