Australia has reclaimed the top spot in the ICC ODI rankings dethroning Pakistan. Following an impressive 123-run victory over South Africa in the second ODI, Australia moved to the top of the points table. Australia leads the 5-match ODI series 2-0.
Batting first, Australia posted a formidable score of 392-8, with David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne leading the charge. Warner scored 106 runs off just 93 balls, while Labuschagne scored an impressive 124 runs off 99 balls. He had previously delivered a match-winning 80 not out in the series opener, earning him the man of the match accolade for the second time.
Australia got off to a strong start with Warner and Travis Head going all guns blazing right from the start. Head scored a quickfire 64 off 36 before being caught by David Miller off Tabraiz Shamsi’s bowling. Although they lost their captain, Mitchell Marsh, to Shamsi’s next delivery, Australia maintained their momentum. Warner and Labuschagne added 151 runs for the third wicket. Warner then achieved his 20th ODI century and Labuschagne secured his second.
Josh Inglis also made a swift contribution, scoring 50 off 37 balls, propelling Australia’s total close to the record target they set against South Africa in 2006. South Africa’s bowlers struggled to contain the Australian onslaught throughout the match.
South Africa’s chase began promisingly with Quinton de Kock and Temba Bavuma putting up 81 for the first wicket. However, Adam Zampa’s effective wrist spin claimed crucial wickets, including Bavuma for 46 and Heinrich Klaasen for 49. When David Miller was dismissed lbw by Nathan Ellis for 49, South Africa’s chances of victory diminished. They were eventually bowled out in the 42nd over for a total of 269.
The two teams will lock horns again in the third ODI in Potchefstroom on Tuesday.