Pakistan's all-rounder Salman Ali Agha played a crucial role in his team's victory over South Africa in the first ODI, but in a heartwarming gesture, he handed over his "Man of the Match" award to young opener Saim Ayub for his brilliant knock of 109 runs.
Pakistan's chase of 240 at Paarl was a thrilling contest. South Africa had set the target after struggling at 88 for 4, with Heinrich Klaasen’s 86 and two crucial partnerships with Aiden Markram and Marco Jansen pushing the hosts to a competitive total. Agha's four-wicket haul had been pivotal in the middle overs, as he dismantled the South African lower order.
Ayub’s 109, which came off 112 balls and included 10 boundaries and two sixes, was the cornerstone of Pakistan's successful chase. Agha, playing an important supporting role, finished unbeaten on 82, hitting four fours and two sixes.
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While Agha was named "Man of the Match" for his all-round performance, he made a heartwarming move to give the award to Ayub, whose century played a crucial role in the victory.
“His knock set up the game for us,” said Agha, reflecting on Ayub’s contribution. “If he hadn’t played like that, we wouldn’t have won. We were behind, but he scored a hundred, and it was an amazing feat. Hence, he deserves the award.”
Both players shared a moment of camaraderie, posing together with the award after the match.
Agha’s gesture was also praised by Pakistan's captain Muhammad Rizwan, who commended his teammate for lifting the team’s spirit. “Salman’s gesture really boosts the morale of the team,” Rizwan said.
Pakistan’s victory has given them a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, with the second ODI set to take place on Thursday.
