AUS vs SA 3rd ODI Highlights: Australia produced a batting masterclass and followed it up with a clinical bowling display to seal a thumping 276-run victory over South Africa in the third ODI at Mackay on Sunday. Although the Proteas had already pocketed the three-match series 2–1, the Aussies ended the ODI leg on a high after their earlier T20I series triumph.
Head, Marsh, and Green Create History
The Australian top order put on a show for the Mackay crowd, piling up a mammoth 431/2 in 50 overs.
- Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, and Cameron Green all struck centuries, joining a rare list of teams to feature three centurions in the same ODI innings — equalling a world record.
- Marsh, captaining the side, set the tone after winning the toss and electing to bat first, ensuring Australia dominated right from the start.
- Their batting momentum never slowed, as boundaries flowed across the ground and South Africa’s bowlers were left searching for answers.
The scoreboard pressure was always going to be overwhelming, and it showed during South Africa’s reply.
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Proteas Collapse Under Pressure
Chasing a daunting 432, the visitors faltered badly and were bowled out for 155 runs.
- Young left-arm spinner Cooper Connolly was the standout bowler, grabbing three key wickets to dismantle the Proteas’ middle order.
- None of South Africa’s batters managed to build a meaningful partnership, with wickets tumbling regularly against Australia’s varied attack.
- Captain Temba Bavuma and opener Ryan Rickelton tried to steady the chase, but once they departed, the result became inevitable.
Series Context and Takeaways
While South Africa had already clinched the ODI series with victories in the first two matches, this game highlighted Australia’s depth and resilience.
- Australia can take confidence from their batting firepower, particularly with multiple players in red-hot form.
- The dominance of both pace and spin in this match suggests their bowling unit is well-rounded heading into bigger challenges.
- For South Africa, despite losing this match. The series win marks another step forward as they prepare for upcoming ICC tournaments. The inconsistency of their middle order, however, remains a concern.
Final Word
Australia may not have claimed the series, but their commanding performance in Mackay was a timely reminder of their strength in white-ball cricket. With the T20I series already in the bag and a record-equalling batting display in this ODI. The Aussies signed off on the tour with plenty of positives, while the Proteas walked away with a morale-boosting series victory.