By Dwayne Ferreira
David Miller blasted 142 and Temba Bavuma struck 103 as South Africa defeated Australia by 32 runs in a run-filled second ODI at the Wanderers to secure the three-match series.
JOHANNESBURG – David Miller produced a devastating 142 and captain Temba Bavuma struck 103 as South Africa defeated Australia by 32 runs in a high-scoring second ODI at the Wanderers in Johannesburg.
The victory gave South Africa an unassailable 2–0 lead in the three-match series after they posted 365 for nine before bowling Australia out for 333 with one delivery remaining.
Australia had made an ideal start after choosing to bowl when Josh Hazlewood dismissed Aiden Markram with the first ball of the match.
Quinton de Kock followed for 15, while Matthew Breetzke made 34 before South Africa slipped to 93 for three.
But Bavuma and Miller dramatically changed the contest.
The pair added 156 runs for the fourth wicket, with Bavuma providing stability while Miller launched an extraordinary assault on the Australian attack.
Bavuma made 103 from 116 balls with 10 fours and two sixes, while Miller smashed 142 from only 93 deliveries. His innings contained 12 fours and nine sixes and was the major reason South Africa surged beyond 350.
Australia’s ODI debutant Jack Edwards nevertheless enjoyed an outstanding day with the ball, claiming five for 67, while Hazlewood finished with three for 70.
Marsh and Head Give Australia Hope
Australia responded aggressively.
Captain Mitchell Marsh smashed 84 from 53 balls and Travis Head also made 84, from 76 deliveries, as the opening pair raced to 130 without loss.
Marsh struck 10 fours and five sixes, briefly putting Australia in a strong position to challenge the 366-run target.
However, South Africa’s bowlers gradually regained control.
Marsh was dismissed by Bjorn Fortuin before Aiden Markram removed Head at 191 for three. Australia’s middle order then struggled to maintain the required scoring rate.
Matt Renshaw contributed 32, while Jack Edwards scored 25.
Xavier Bartlett revived Australia’s chances late in the innings with a spectacular 50 from only 28 balls, including five sixes, but South Africa held their nerve.
Lizaad Williams finished with three for 54, while Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj and Bjorn Fortuin each collected two wickets. Australia were finally dismissed for 333 in 49.5 overs.
Miller was named Player of the Match for his career-best 142 as South Africa secured the series with one ODI remaining.
SCORECARD
South Africa – 365/9 (50 overs)
David Miller 142 (93)
Temba Bavuma 103 (116)
Matthew Breetzke 34 (28)
Jack Edwards 5/67
Josh Hazlewood 3/70
Australia – 333 all out (49.5 overs)
Mitchell Marsh 84 (53)
Travis Head 84 (76)
Xavier Bartlett 50 (28)
Lizaad Williams 3/54
Keshav Maharaj 2/54
Result: South Africa won by 32 runs
Series: South Africa lead 2–0
Player of the Match: David Miller
