0
0 Mackay, August 24, 2025 – Australia delivered a masterclass in batting, posting a colossal 431/2 in the third ODI against South Africa at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay, Queensland. The hosts’ explosive performance, driven by centuries from Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, and Cameron Green, set a daunting challenge for the Proteas, who now face a near-impossible task to level the series.
Australia’s Run-Fest Lights Up Mackay
Australia’s innings was a spectacle of power and precision, with the top order firing on all cylinders. Openers Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh laid a rock-solid foundation, forging a 250-run partnership that ranks among Australia’s best in ODI history. Head, in scintillating form, smashed 142 runs off 103 balls, blending elegance with aggression. Marsh, the captain, anchored the innings with a composed 100 off 106 balls, showcasing his leadership in both strategy and execution.
The fireworks didn’t stop there. Cameron Green, batting at number three, unleashed an unbeaten 118 off just 55 balls, peppering the boundary with audacious strokes. Alex Carey chipped in with a brisk, unbeaten 50 off 37 balls, ensuring Australia maintained their momentum until the final ball. The total of 431/2 is Australia’s second-highest in ODI cricket, falling just short of their record 434/4 set against South Africa in 2006.
South Africa’s Uphill Battle
South Africa, already trailing 2-0 in the three-match series, now face a monumental chase. The Proteas’ bowling attack struggled to contain Australia’s onslaught, with Lungi Ngidi and Keshav Maharaj unable to replicate their heroics from the earlier matches. The visitors’ fielding lapses and lack of early breakthroughs allowed Australia’s batsmen to dominate, setting a target that evokes memories of the historic 438-run chase at Johannesburg in 2006.
Despite their recent dominance over Australia in bilateral ODI series, South Africa’s hopes of a whitewash have been dashed. With key players like Kagiso Rabada sidelined by injury, the Proteas will need exceptional performances from Aiden Markram, Matthew Breetzke, and Tristan Stubbs to even dream of chasing down this mammoth total.
Key Performances and Milestones
- Travis Head (142 off 103): A blistering knock that included 15 fours and 5 sixes, setting the tone for Australia’s dominance.
- Mitchell Marsh (100 off 106): The skipper’s century was a blend of caution and aggression, guiding the team through the middle overs.
- Cameron Green (118* off 55): An unbeaten century that showcased his growing stature as a white-ball powerhouse.
- Alex Carey (50* off 37): A quickfire half-century that kept the scoreboard ticking in the death overs.
What’s Next?
South Africa’s chase will test their batting depth and resolve. While history offers hope—recalling their miraculous 438/9 to chase down 434 in 2006—the current Australian bowling attack, led by Josh Hazlewood and Adam Zampa, is unlikely to make things easy. With the series already decided, Australia will aim to end the tour on a high, while South Africa will play for pride and a chance to etch their name in the record books once again.
The match continues at the Great Barrier Reef Arena, with fans eagerly awaiting whether South Africa can pull off a miracle or if Australia’s batting heroics will seal a comprehensive victory. Stay tuned for live updates and post-match analysis as this thrilling encounter unfolds.
Average Rating