Australia end ODI series with consolation win in Potchefstroom

Australia secured a 47-run consolation victory over South Africa in the rain-affected third ODI at the JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom on Wednesday, but the hosts took the series 2-1.

Neil Manthorp reports for SuperSport that Australia made 322 for nine after being sent in, with Alex Carey top-scoring with 74, before rain ended South Africa’s chase at 145 for four. Australia won on the DLS method.

South Africa had already secured the series after winning the opening match in Durban by 67 runs and the second at the Wanderers by 32 runs.

Ryan Rickelton was unbeaten on 71 when rain brought the chase to an early end, while Corbin Bosch was 13 not out. South Africa’s pursuit had been weakened by the loss of Tony de Zorzi, who suffered a hamstring injury while Australia were batting and was unable to open the innings.

Australia’s top seven all passed 20, with captain Mitchell Marsh making 56 from 42 deliveries. South Africa’s bowlers nevertheless prevented Australia from turning several partnerships into much larger stands. Bosch took four wickets for 60 runs in nine overs, while Gerald Coetzee claimed two for 61.

Xavier Bartlett took two early wickets in the South African innings, removing Quinton de Kock for a duck and Aiden Markram for 15. Adam Zampa also claimed two wickets.

South Africa made five changes to the side that clinched the series at the Wanderers, with Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj and captain Temba Bavuma rested. David Miller, who was player of the match in the second ODI, was also omitted.

The match also marked the return of Pat Cummins, who was playing only his third ODI since captaining Australia to the 2023 World Cup title.

Australia are due to play a two-day warm-up against a CSA Invitation XI in Potchefstroom before the first Test against South Africa begins at Kingsmead in Durban on Friday, 9 October.