Mohammad Rizwan once again put on a brilliant display of wicketkeeping during Pakistan’s third ODI against South Africa at The Wanderers Stadium on December 23.
In a moment that echoed MS Dhoni’s sharp reflexes, Rizwan took a brilliant catch in the 21st over of South Africa’s innings.
The moment came when Saeem Ayub was bowling to middle-order batsman David Miller. Miller tries to scoop a paddle on a good length delivery, but Rizwan anticipates the shot, moving quickly to leg-slip position.
Without hesitation, he took the ball to his chest and held it securely with both gloves, sending Miller back to the pavilion for just 3 runs off 6 balls.
The catch once again highlighted Rizwan’s status as one of Pakistan’s best wicketkeepers, known for his quick reflexes and quick cricketing acumen.
On the other hand, Rising Star Saeem Ayub scored his second century. Third in the series and third in five innings, Pakistan beat South Africa by 36 runs in the third ODI at the Wanderers Stadium on Sunday.
Ayub scored 101 off 94 balls, contributing to Pakistan’s total of 308/9. Heinrich Klaasen top-scored for South Africa with 81 off 43 balls, but the hosts fell short, chasing an adjusted target of 308 in a rain-affected match restricted to 47 overs per side.
Ayub’s streak continued after his previous centuries in the series opener against South Africa and the second ODI against Zimbabwe.
Despite Abdullah Shafiq’s third consecutive wicket, Ayub’s partnership with Babar Azam (52) and Mohammad Rizwan (53) steadied Pakistan’s innings. Ayub fell after hitting 13 fours and 2 sixes.
In the second innings, Ayub took 1/34 in 10 overs, including the crucial wicket of David Miller, and posted the most economical bowling figures of the match.
South Africa struggled, Claasin was the only batsman to make a half-century. Pakistan completed a clean sweep in the series with this win.