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Australia Claim Consolation Win Over Proteas in Rain-Hit 3rd ODI
Australia salvaged some pride with a 45-run DLS victory over South Africa in the third ODI at Potchefstroom. Despite the loss, the Proteas take the series 2-1.
Key Takeaways
- ✓ Australia won by 45 runs (DLS method).
- ✓ Australia posted 322/9, with Alex Carey top-scoring with 74.
- ✓ South Africa were 145/4 after 28 overs when rain ended the match.
- ✓ South Africa win the three-match series 2-1.
The Proteas' hopes of a clean sweep were washed away under the Potchefstroom floodlights as Australia claimed a 45-run victory via the DLS method in the third and final ODI.
Despite the damp squib of an ending, South Africa still lift the series trophy with a 2-1 victory, giving the home crowd plenty to cheer about ahead of the upcoming Test series.
Aussies Set a Stiff Target
After South Africa elected to field, Australia set about building a formidable total. The tourists posted 322/9 in their 50 overs, anchored by a feisty 74 from wicketkeeper Alex Carey.
- Gerald Coetzee provided a highlight for the Proteas, bowling Cooper Connolly with a brilliant yorker.
- Corbin Bosch was named MVP for his all-round efforts.
- Lizaad Williams chipped in with 2/48 from his six overs.
Early Stumbles in the Chase
South Africa's chase got off to a disastrous start. Quinton de Kock chipped a short ball from Xavier Bartlett straight to Mitchell Starc to depart for a duck in the second over.
Things went from bad to worse when Aiden Markram was trapped plumb lbw by Bartlett for just 30, leaving the Proteas reeling at 30/2. The top order struggled to find rhythm against a disciplined Australian attack.
Rain Has the Final Say
As South Africa tried to rebuild, reaching 145/4 after 28 overs, the heavens opened at JB Marks Oval. With the target adjusted to 191 at that stage, the Proteas found themselves 45 runs short of the DLS par score.
The rain refused to relent, and the match was eventually called off, handing Australia a consolation victory. It was a bitter pill to swallow for the 44% of our community who predicted a sweep, but the 56% who backed an Aussie fightback were spot on.
Looking Ahead
While the final match didn't go to plan, a 2-1 series victory over Australia is nothing to scoff at. The Proteas showed immense character in the first two matches, and the squad depth looks promising despite several key injuries to the fast bowling stocks.
Attention now turns to the highly anticipated three-match Test series. If this ODI series is anything to go by, we are in for a cracking contest.
How the Saffas Connect community called it
18 members made a prediction before kick-off. Here's how the room split:
- Aussies grab a consolation win 🇦🇺 — 56% (10 picks) ← the result
- Proteas complete the sweep! 🇿🇦 — 44% (8 picks)
- Tie or No Result 🌧️ — 0% (0 picks)
10 of us (56%) got it right, backing "Aussies grab a consolation win 🇦🇺".
Every match-day email carries a one-tap prediction, and the running standings live on the Predictor League page. Correct calls build a streak — the longer it runs, the higher you climb.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score in the 3rd ODI between SA and AUS?
Australia won by 45 runs (DLS method). Australia scored 322/9, and South Africa were 145/4 in 28 overs when rain stopped play.
Who won the ODI series between South Africa and Australia?
South Africa won the three-match ODI series 2-1.
Who was the standout player for Australia in the 3rd ODI?
Alex Carey was the standout performer for Australia, top-scoring with 74 runs to help his team post a competitive total.
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