The hamstring curse struck again for the Proteas after top-order batter Tony de Zorzi pulled up during Australia’s innings in the third ODI at Potchefstroom on Wednesday.
De Zorzi was ruled out for the remainder of the match and is now doubtful for the upcoming three-match Test series against the Aussies.
The visitors gave a much better account of themselves with the bat after Proteas stand-in captain Aiden Markram won the toss and inserted the Aussies, following a 30-minute delay due to a wet outfield.
Australian captain Mitchell Marsh made the most of the opening powerplay, bringing up his 50 off just 33 balls as he powered his team to 82/1.
Travis Head was the first to depart for 24 off 20 balls, before Marsh followed shortly afterward when his review was struck down.
Australia’s momentum was further stemmed when Cooper Connolly was dismissed, leaving the visitors at 118/3 in the 18th over.
The innings then followed a familiar script, with the Proteas spinners maintaining the pressure, but a solid 73-run partnership off 84 balls between young Oliver Peake (48) and Alex Carey kept Australia’s innings on course.
An additional 66-run stand between Carey and Matt Renshaw (30) further consolidated Australia’s position.
But with Corbin Bosch (4/60) striking regularly—including the big wicket of Carey for 74 (88 balls, 4×4, 2×6)—the Australians edged their way past 300 before Mitchell Starc hit a few lusty blows to inject fresh momentum into the innings.
SCOREBOARD, 3RD ODI
Australia: 322/9 (Carey 74, Marsh 56, Peake 48; Bosch 4/60, Williams 2/48)
South Africa require 323 runs for victory.
