A Stunning Turnaround
Australia saved their best for last in the ODI series against South Africa. After losing the first two games, they roared back in Mackay with a performance that felt more like a statement than just a win, thrashing South Africa by 276 runs, their heaviest defeat in ODI history.
Runs Flow in Mackay
The tone was set early. Travis Head (142) and Mitchell Marsh (100) piled on the runs with fearless strokeplay. Then came Cameron Green, who stole the show with his first ODI century — an unbeaten 118 off just 55 balls. Australia finished on a jaw-dropping 431 for 2, their second-highest ODI total ever.
It wasn’t just runs; it was intent. The top order batted like they had a point to prove, and by the halfway stage, South Africa already looked under pressure.
South Africa Collapse
Chasing 432 was always going to be a mountain. But no one expected the slide to be this steep. South Africa were bowled out for just 155 in 24.5 overs. The slide was sharp and quick, with young left-arm spinner Cooper Connolly starring through a superb spell of 5 for 22 — his best figures in ODIs so far.
Why This Match Matters
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Australia showed depth and fight, even though they lost the series.
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It was South Africa’s biggest-ever ODI defeat, a stat that will sting.
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Cameron Green’s century and Connolly’s five-for were the biggest positives for Australia.
Final Word
The series still belongs to South Africa, but this game will be remembered for Australia’s comeback punch. In a year full of cricket, this was a reminder that one-dayers can still produce drama, dominance, and milestones — all in a single evening.
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