Australia's one-day international struggles have deepened dramatically after suffering a crushing 84-run defeat to a dominant South African side, who clinched the series 2-1 in a commanding display at Potchefstroom.
The Proteas, setting a formidable target after being put in to bat, posted a competitive 254 all out. The foundation was laid by a polished 83 from opener Reeza Hendricks, who expertly navigated a tricky pitch. Valuable middle-order contributions, including a brisk 45 from Heinrich Klaasen, ensured the hosts posted a challenging total despite a late flurry of wickets.
Any hopes of an Australian chase were swiftly extinguished by a ferocious spell of fast bowling from Gerald Coetzee. The young paceman ripped through the top order, claiming the vital scalps of Travis Head and Steve Smith to leave the visitors reeling at a disastrous 18 for 3.
The Australian innings never recovered from the early onslaught. Wickets fell at regular intervals, with the middle order offering little resistance against a disciplined and relentless South African attack. Coetzee finished with a devastating 4 for 22, ably supported by Keshav Maharaj (2-32) and a miserly Lizaad Williams (2-35).
Despite a late, lone hand from Sean Abbott, who top-scored with a defiant 46, Australia were eventually bundled out for a paltry 170 in the 39th over, sealing a comprehensive victory for the home side.
A Series Defeat That Raises Questions
This series loss marks a significant setback for the Australian ODI setup, raising serious questions about their consistency and batting frailties away from home. For South Africa, this victory serves as a powerful statement of intent, built on a complete team performance combining a gritty batting effort with utterly ruthless bowling.
