Saim joins elite club featuring Tendulkar

Saim Ayub's meteoric rise in ODI cricket continued as the young opener smashed his third century in just nine matches as Pakistan outplayed hosts South Africa 3-0 in ODI series.

Ayub's century was a masterclass in controlled aggression and elegance. Reaching his half-century in 51 balls, he accelerated his innings with a series of powerful shots, including a memorable six off Marco Jansen. His 100 was brought up in style with a crisp cut shot off Aiden Markram before he was dismissed attempting a scoop shot.

The 22-year-old's third ODI century further cements his place among cricket's rising stars, as he has now averaged an impressive 64.37 in his brief career, with three centuries and one half-century to his name.

With this achievement, Ayub becomes one of the few cricketers to score three ODI centuries before turning 23, joining an elite list alongside players like Pakistan's Salman Butt and New Zealand's Kane Williamson. Ayub now has his sights set on climbing even further, as the Champions Trophy approaches in February and the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand in March offers him more opportunities.

Players with most ODI centuries before turning 23:

Quinton de Kock (South Africa) 8 centuries in 52 matches

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan) 8 centuries in 46 matches

Sachin Tendulkar (India) 8 centuries in 116 matches

Virat Kohli (India) 7 centuries in 69 matches

Babar Azam (Pakistan) 6 centuries in 32 matches

Ahmed Shehzad (Pakistan) 5 centuries in 51 matches

Saim Ayub (Pakistan) 3 centuries in 9 matches

Ayub's continued form is a significant boost for Pakistan as they prepare for major upcoming tournaments. His consistency and ability to deliver under pressure have already made him a key figure in Pakistan's batting lineup.

Babar hails Saim's stellar show in SA

Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam on Monday heaped praise on young opener Saim Ayub for his match-winning performances in the three-match ODI series against South Africa.

In the third ODI, Saim partnered with Babar Azam for a crucial 114-run stand off 133 balls for the second wicket, laying a strong foundation for Pakistan's total of 308-9. Babar contributed 52 runs off 71 balls, featuring seven boundaries, before being dismissed by Kwena Maphaka.

After the series, Babar Azam took to Instagram to commend Saim, sharing his photo and calling him "Cheetah" as a tribute to the young star's outstanding efforts.