Naqvi Applauds Pakistan's Historic Triumph in South Africa

Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, expressed his heartfelt congratulations to the national cricket team for their historic achievement in South Africa. Pakistan made history by becoming the first team to secure a 3-0 whitewash in a bilateral ODI series on South African soil, a feat that has elevated the team’s standing in international cricket.

"I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the national team for winning the third ODI and achieving an unprecedented clean sweep against South Africa," Naqvi stated in a PCB release. He singled out young batting sensation Saim Ayub for his exceptional performances throughout the series, particularly his second century in the final match.

"Once again, Saim Ayub displayed his class by scoring a century and playing a pivotal role in the victory," he noted. Naqvi also praised the contributions of Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam, and emerging bowler Sufiyan Muqeem, highlighting their crucial roles in the team’s success.

"Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam were outstanding with the bat, while Sufiyan Muqeem won the hearts of the nation with his remarkable bowling performance," he added. The PCB Chairman further emphasized the importance of teamwork, saying, "This incredible success is a testament to the team’s confidence, passion, and hard work on the field."

Naqvi concluded by expressing optimism for the future, stating, "This victory will not only boost the players' morale but also inspire them to maintain their performance in the upcoming Champions Trophy tournament."

In the third ODI, Pakistan sealed a 36-run victory, successfully defending a challenging total of 308/9. The innings was anchored by Saim Ayub, who scored a brilliant 101 off 94 balls, supported by half-centuries from skipper Babar Azam (52) and Mohammad Rizwan (53), along with a quickfire 48 from Agha Salman.

South Africa’s chase was spearheaded by Heinrich Klaasen, who smashed 81 off 43 balls, while Corbin Bosch added a resilient 40. Despite their efforts, the hosts were bowled out for 271 in 42 overs. Pakistan’s bowling attack, led by debutant Sufiyan Muqeem, was exceptional. Muqeem took four crucial wickets, finishing with impressive figures of 4/52. Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah chipped in with two wickets each, while Mohammad Hasnain and Saim Ayub claimed one apiece.

Sufiyan Muqeem’s debut performance drew widespread acclaim. The left-arm spinner’s 4/52 placed him among Pakistan’s best debutant bowlers, joining an elite group that includes Abdul Qadir, Abrar Ahmed, and Faisal Akram. His remarkable achievement further underscored Pakistan’s growing talent pool.

This historic 3-0 series victory not only etched Pakistan’s name in cricketing history but also marked another milestone for Mohammad Rizwan’s captaincy. Having earlier led Pakistan to a 2-1 series win in Australia—their first in 21 years—followed by a 2-1 triumph against Zimbabwe, Rizwan continues to solidify his credentials as a leader.

Pakistan’s exceptional performance in South Africa is a testament to the team’s dedication, skill, and unity, and it sets an inspiring precedent as they prepare for future challenges on the global stage.