Imran Tahir stars in Proteas' 68-run win over Pak in third ODI

South African leg-spinner Imran Tahir led the devastation of his birth country Pakistan in the third ODI in Abu Dhabi with his four-wicket haul, which played a crucial role in the visitors 68-run victory and consequently, a 2-1 lead in the five-match series on Wednesday.

Tahir picked up his third four-wicket haul in the Test format, which included the key wicket of Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq, thereby putting Pakistan on the back foot in the match despite a runaway start by the opening partnership of Mohammed Hafeez and Ahmed Shehzad.

According to Sport24, despite Pakistan scoring 43 runs in the first six overs, the introduction of Dale Steyn to the attack brought a remarkable turn-around as he immediately dismissed Shehzad with the result that Pakistan only scored 18 runs in their next six overs.

Thereafter Tahir took charge with the support of the seamers and there was no way back for Pakistan into the match in spite of some spirited hitting by their tail-enders.

The Man of the Match award went to Faf du Plessis for his 54 - his first half-century against Pakistan in this format - plus two outstanding catches in the 30-metre circle, the report added.