In the ongoing five-match ODI series between South Africa (SA) and Australia (AUS), the stage is set for a face-off in the third ODI. Australia, riding high on their recent form, secured a commanding 123-run victory in the second ODI.
Marnus Labuschagne has been a standout performer for Australia, displaying exceptional form with scores of 80 and 124 in two innings. He emerges as a strong contender to be Australia’s top batsman. On the South African side, Temba Bavuma has also been in fine form, contributing scores of 114 and 46 in two innings.
The third ODI, scheduled to be held at Senwes Park in Potchefstroom on September 12, holds immense significance for South Africa. Australia has demonstrated their prowess on this tour, clinching victory in all five games thus far. In the second ODI, they posted a formidable total of 392-8 and subsequently bowled out South Africa for 269.
The batting performances of the Proteas have been below par, and they face a critical juncture in a must-win game. South Africa experimented with their lineup in the previous game, aiming to prepare for upcoming global events. Unfortunately, they were dealt a setback when pacer Anrich Nortje had to be ruled out due to back spasms. Meanwhile, Australia is also utilizing the series as an opportunity to test their World Cup players, with Tim David and Aaron Hardie making their ODI debuts in the second ODI.
Match Details:
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Match: South Africa vs. Australia, 3rd ODI
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Venue: Senwes Park, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Date & Time: Tuesday, September 12, 04:30 PM IST
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Live Streaming Details: Star Sports Network and FanCode
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Pitch Report: The pitch at Senwes Park is anticipated to favor batsmen,
with some initial movement for the bowlers. Batsmen will need to spend
some time at the crease before attempting big shots.
Key Players to Watch:
Temba Bavuma (South Africa): South Africa’s skipper, Temba Bavuma, delivered a sensational century in the first ODI and showcased promise in the second ODI as well. His sublime form is crucial for the team, particularly given that several other batters have struggled to find their rhythm. Bavuma boasts a record of 1304 runs in 28 ODIs for the national team, making him a pivotal figure in South Africa’s batting lineup.
Josh Hazlewood (Australia): In the absence of Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood shoulders the responsibility of leading Australia’s pace attack. Hazlewood displayed his prowess in the first match, securing three crucial wickets. Although he was rested for the second ODI, Hazlewood aims to maintain his momentum and assist Australia in securing a 3-0 lead in the five-match series.
SA vs AUS Probable Playing XI
South Africa (SA):
Quinton de Kock (wk), Temba Bavuma (c), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Keshav Maharaj, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi Marco Jansen, Gerald Coetzee, Kagiso Rabada
Australia (AUS):
David Warner, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Sean Abbott, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey (wk), Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Agar, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood
The third ODI between South Africa and Australia promises to be a crucial encounter, with South Africa desperately needing a victory to stay alive in the series. While Marnus Labuschagne and Temba Bavuma have shone brightly, the battle between Josh Hazlewood and South Africa’s struggling batting lineup will be a key narrative in the match. Cricket enthusiasts can anticipate an exciting contest at Senwes Park.
