The third and final ODI between Pakistan and South Africa is set to take place at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on December 22. With the series already in Pakistan’s favor, South Africa will aim to salvage some pride in this contest. Pakistan, led by Mohammad Rizwan, came into the series after a disappointing T20I campaign but bounced back strongly, winning both ODIs with impressive performances.
In the first ODI, South Africa posted a modest 239/9, with Saim Ayub’s brilliant hundred guiding Pakistan to victory. In the second match, Pakistan’s 329, aided by fifties from Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Kamran Ghulam, set a challenging target. Despite Heinrich Klaasen’s valiant knock, Pakistan’s bowlers, led by their speedsters, wrapped up the series with a memorable win.
The Wanderers pitch traditionally supports pacers with its pace and bounce, and recent rainfall could boost fast bowlers early on. The surface may offer some moisture, aiding the pacers in the initial stages of the game. The high altitude at the venue will also allow the ball to travel faster, providing batsmen who weather the initial spell a chance to accumulate runs. The past five matches have seen the team batting first win three times, and with rain predicted, bowling first might be a good option.
Key players to watch include Kagiso Rabada, who has an excellent ODI record at Wanderers, and Saim Ayub, who has been in sublime form. Heinrich Klaasen, South Africa’s standout player in the series, will also be crucial for the hosts.
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