Just before the World Cup, South Africa showcased their strong preparation by defeating Australia. South Africa emerged victorious in the five-match ODI series, defeating Australia 3-2.
South Africa’s Sensational Comeback: Defeating Australia 3-2 in ODI Series
In the fifth and deciding match on Sunday, South Africa made history by defeating Australia by 122 runs. This marked the third time South Africa achieved such a feat, coming back to win a series after trailing 0-2. They previously accomplished this against Pakistan in 2003 and against England in 2016. Bangladesh (against Zimbabwe in 2005) and Australia (against India in 2019) have achieved this feat once each.
SA vs AUS 5th ODI
Australia won the toss and opted to bowl first in Johannesburg. The host, South Africa, didn’t have a strong start, with Captain Temba Bavuma (0) being run out in the second over. Opener Quinton de Kock (27 off 39 balls) was dismissed in the 12th over, and Van der Dussen (30 off 48 balls) returned to the pavilion in the 19th over. Henry Klaasen, who displayed his talent with an aggressive 174-run innings in the last match, could only manage 6 runs in this game.
Aiden Markram & David Miller partnership
Aiden Markram led the innings with a score of 93 runs off 87 balls, while David Miller contributed 63 runs off 65 balls. Together, they formed a partnership of 109 runs for the fourth wicket. Miller, along with Marco Janselen (47), added 46 runs for the sixth wicket. Phehlukwayo contributed 39 runs to the team’s total in 19 balls. South Africa posted a score of 315 runs, losing 9 wickets in 50 overs. In Australia’s bowling lineup, Adam Zampa took the most wickets with 3. Sean Abbott took 2 wickets, while Team David, Nathan Ellis, and Cameron Green each claimed one wicket.
Marco & Keshav Maharaj brilliant bowling
Captain Mitchell Marsh scored 71 runs off 56 balls for the Australian team, which took to the field to chase the target. David Warner was dismissed after scoring 10 runs in 6 balls. Marco dismissed Warner and Josh Inglis (0) in the fourth over. Marsh partnered with Marnus Labuschagne for a 90-run stand for the third wicket. However, Australia lost their last 7 wickets, adding just 69 runs. Australia’s innings were limited to 194 runs in 34.1 overs. Marco showcased his bowling talent for South Africa, taking 5 wickets for 39 runs in 8 overs. Keshav Maharaj took 4 wickets, conceding 33 runs in 9.1 overs, while Phehlukwayo claimed one wicket.
