A commanding all-round performance from South Africa secured an 84-run win over Australia in the second One-Day International, giving the visitors an unassailable 2-0 series lead.
After winning the toss and opting to bat first, South Africa posted a competitive 277 all out. The innings was built around Matthew Breetzke’s 88, which established a new record for the most runs by a player in their first four ODI appearances. Tristan Stubbs provided valuable support with 74, though the Proteas’ momentum stalled after losing Breetzke, sliding from 179-3 to their final total.
The Australian bowling attack produced mixed results. Nathan Ellis and Adam Zampa claimed two and three wickets respectively, while part-timer Marnus Labuschagne surprised with two crucial wickets from his five overs. Cameron Green, though not bowling, impressed with four catches in the field.
In reply, Australia’s chase never gained traction, collapsing to 193 all out in just 37.4 overs. Josh Inglis offered the lone resistance with a fighting 87, but received little support from the top order. Travis Head’s struggles continued with an early dismissal, while Mitchell Marsh, Marnus Labuschagne, and Aaron Hardie all fell cheaply.
Lungi Ngidi spearheaded South Africa’s bowling effort with impressive figures of 5-42, effectively dismantling Australia’s lower order. Nandre Burger provided crucial early breakthroughs, finishing with 2-23 from his six overs, while Senuran Muthusamy contributed two wickets of his own.
The comprehensive defeat raises questions about Australia’s approach to ODI cricket, with the batting lineup appearing particularly fragile. South Africa, meanwhile, demonstrated greater consistency, successfully defending substantial totals in both matches of the series so far.
The teams will meet again for the final match of the series, which now serves as a dead rubber with the outcome already decided.
