Twitter Reactions: Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha set up thrilling win for Pakistan in 1st ODI

Pakistan eked out a thrilling three-wicket win in the first ODI in the three-match series against South Africa at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday, December 18.

The Proteas, led by Aiden Markram, won the toss and opted to bat first. Openers Tony de Zorzi and Ryan Rickelton got their team off to a fantastic start as they added 70 runs inside the first 10 overs. However, Pakistan bounced back strongly to take four wickets for 18 runs in 24 balls to reduce South Africa to 88/4.

Markram joined forces with Heinrich Klaasen as the duo added 73 runs off 107 balls to resurrect the innings. The former departed after scoring a 54-ball 35. However, Klaasen continued thwarting the Pakistani bowlers with his wide range of shots. The wicketkeeper-batter scored 40 out of the 50-run partnership he had with Marco Jansen for the sixth wicket.

From 211/5 in 41.3 overs, South Africa only managed 239/9 at the end of the first innings. Klaasen top-scored with a 97-ball 86, hitting seven fours and two sixes. Salman Ali Agha changed the game with the ball for the tourists as he finished with figures of 4/32.

In reply, Pakistan lost the wicket of Abdullah Shafique for a duck in the second over. Babar Azam got himself set at the crease before throwing attack. Mohammad Rizwan and Kamran Ghulam fell cheaply as Pakistan were reduced to 60/4 in 19.1 overs. With their backs against the wall, Salman and Saim Ayub stepped up by adding a mesmerising partnership of 141 runs off 133 balls.

Ayub departed after registering his second ODI century. Kagiso Rabada took his wicket after he scored a magical 109 off 119 deliveries, hitting 10 fours and three sixes. South Africa took two more wickets in quick succession as the home side was reduced to 209/7 in 44.3 overs.

Salman Ali kept a calm head and took his team over the line in the last over. The all-rounder remained unbeaten on 82 off 90 balls. He hit four fours and two sixes. Pakistan finished on 242/7 in 49.3 overs. Salman Ali had Naseem Shah for company when he finished the match with a boundary.

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