“Pakistan turning point Abrar Ahmed 4/27 Saim Ayub 77 Runs Series 2-1”
Visuals: Use a large image of Pakistan players celebrating (center) with inset/action images of Saim Ayub batting & Abrar Ahmed bowling.
On Saturday 8 November 2025 at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad, Pakistan sealed the three-match ODI series against South Africa with a dominant victory. Pakistan chased down South Africa’s total with ease and claimed the series 2-1.
South Africa, after bouncing back in the 2nd ODI, couldn’t maintain momentum in the decider. Pakistan’s bowling attack, especially the spinners, and a confident chase proved decisive.
Toss & Conditions
South Africa won the toss and elected to bat first. The pitch at Iqbal Stadium offered decent turn as the match progressed, favouring the bowlers after the first 10-15 overs. Outlook India+1
South Africa 1st Innings
- South Africa began promisingly with an opening partnership between Quinton de Kock and Lhuan‑dre Pretorius.
- However, once Pakistan’s spinners came into the attack, the Proteas collapsed badly. Only de Kock and Pretorius made any notable contributions; the rest of the batting lineup failed to build partnerships.
- Final total: South Africa were dismissed for 143 runs in 37.5 overs.
Key Bowling Performers (Pakistan)
- Abrar Ahmed was the star with the ball, taking 4 wickets for 27 runs. His spell triggered the collapse of South Africa’s innings.
- Support came from other bowlers who subtly built pressure and ensured the South African batters never got back on track.
Pakistan 2nd Innings (Chase)
- Chasing a modest target of 144, Pakistan got off to a confident start. NDTV Sports+1
- Saim Ayub played a brilliant innings – 77 runs off 70 balls, with 11 boundaries and a six. His knock settled the chase. NDTV Sports+1
- Build-up with contributions from teammates like Mohammad Rizwan (32* not out) helped wrap up the chase. Outlook India
- Pakistan won by 7 wickets, completing the chase in 25.1 overs. NDTV Sports+1
Match Turning Points
- The pivotal moment was Pakistan’s spin bowling making inroads when South Africa looked solid early. Abrar’s burst changed the game.
- The collapse of South Africa’s middle order allowed Pakistan to chase with freedom rather than tension.
- Saim Ayub’s composed but aggressive knock ensured Pakistan didn’t let nerves creep in after the prior match loss.
Why This Win Matters
- Pakistan claimed the series 2-1, marking a significant win on home soil against a strong South African side. Outlook India+1
- It boosts the team’s confidence, especially in their spin bowling and batting depth under pressure.
- For South Africa, it’s a reminder that momentum can be fragile and middle-order stability is still a work in progress.
Player of the Match & Notables
- Player of the Match: Abrar Ahmed (4/27) for his match-turning bowling. NDTV Sports+1
- Saim Ayub: Finisher of the innings and key to the chase.
- South Africa’s early promise undone by poor collapse — a caution on the day when you don’t get big partnerships.
What Next?
- Pakistan will look to build on this and maintain the momentum.
- South Africa would analyse how the collapse happened and regroup quickly for upcoming matches or series.
Quick Stats Snapshot
| Team | Score | Result |
|---|---|---|
| South Africa | 143 all-out | — |
| Pakistan | 144/3 (25.1) | Won by 7 wickets, series 2-1 |
Closing Thoughts
This match reaffirmed Pakistan’s ability to perform under pressure and exploit home conditions. The coordinated bowling effort led by Abrar Ahmed and a sharp batting performance by Saim Ayub made the difference. For South Africa, it was a lesson in how quickly a match can shift in ODI cricket.