South Africa head into the second ODI against Australia full of confidence after a commanding 98-run win in the series opener at Cazaly's Stadium, Cairns.
Temba Bavuma’s men outplayed the hosts in all departments, setting a strong total of 297 before Keshav Maharaj’s five-wicket haul dismantled Australia’s chase.
Mitchell Marsh’s side showed promise early on through Travis Head and Marsh himself, but their middle order crumbled under pressure, raising serious questions ahead of Friday’s clash. As the Proteas look to seal the series, the Aussies must regroup quickly to stay alive in this three-match contest.
Head-to-head record: Australia vs. South Africa in ODIs
Australia and South Africa have faced each other 111 times in ODIs, producing one of the most competitive rivalries in world cricket. The Proteas hold a narrow edge with 56 wins, while the Aussies have claimed 51 victories.
- Total matches: 111
- Australia wins: 51
- South Africa wins: 56
- Tied/No result: 4
Top players to watch: Batters & Bowlers
Batters to watch
Matthew Breetzke (SA): The young opener has started his ODI career in style with scores of 150, 83, and 57. His consistency at the top gives South Africa a strong foundation in every game.
Mitchell Marsh (AUS): The skipper has a proven record against South Africa, with five of his 20 ODI fifties coming against them. His leadership and middle-order stability will be key if Australia are to bounce back.
Bowlers to watch
Keshav Maharaj (SA): The left-arm spinner was the standout performer in the first ODI, returning figures of 5/33. His ability to control the middle overs and pick up key wickets makes him a constant threat.
Travis Head (AUS): Known for his explosive batting, Head surprised everyone in the opener by becoming the first Australian spinner to claim a four-wicket haul against South Africa in ODIs at home. His all-round contribution could prove vital in the series.
AUS vs. SA betting odds & predictions: Who has the edge?
Dafabet have placed Australia as the favorites at 1.55, while South Africa are priced at 2.45 despite their dominant win in the series opener. The odds reflect the home advantage for Mitchell Marsh’s men, but Temba Bavuma’s side will carry plenty of confidence after outplaying the hosts in all departments.
This sets up a balanced contest where momentum is with South Africa, but betting markets still lean towards Australia.
Odds* | |
Australia | 1.55 |
South Africa | 2.45 |
*Odds are correct at the time of publish
TSN’s Top 3 Predictions:
- Top Batter: Matthew Breetzke (SA) – in red-hot form at the top of the order.
- Top Bowler: Keshav Maharaj (SA) – his five-for in the first ODI makes him the biggest threat.
- Match Winner: South Africa – form and momentum tilt the edge towards the visitors despite the odds.
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Australia vs. South Africa: Expected playing XIs and team news
Australia Team News
Australia may consider changes after their middle-order failure in Cairns. Aaron Hardie’s spot at No.7 is under scrutiny, with Cooper Connolly offering a spinning all-rounder option. Calls for Matt Kuhnemann’s inclusion persist, but the selectors are more likely to tweak the balance with Connolly.
Josh Hazlewood’s workload is being closely monitored with the Ashes ahead, meaning Xavier Bartlett could come in if Hazlewood is rested in the back-to-back fixtures.
Australia (predicted playing XI): Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh (c), Cameron Green, Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis (wk), Alex Carey, Aaron Hardie/Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood
South Africa Team News
South Africa are considering rotating their bowling attack for the final two ODIs. Prenelan Subrayen has been rested, which opens the door for Senuran Muthusamy to add another left-arm spin option against Australia’s right-hand heavy top five.
Pace duo Corbin Bosch and Kwena Maphaka are also in contention if Lungi Ngidi is given a break after a heavy workload across the tour.
South Africa (predicted playing XI): Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Temba Bavuma (c), Matthew Breetzke, Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Keshav Maharaj, Nandre Burger, Lungi Ngidi
AUS vs. SA live scorecard: 2nd ODI
To follow the action between the Australia vs. South Africa live, you can make use of the live scorecard feature on Parimatch's website.
Navigate to the game of your choice and click the scorecard icon to follow along, and bet live with the action with a trusted site.
Where to watch AUS vs. SA 2nd ODI in India
- Venue: Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay
- Date & Time (IST): Friday, August 22, 10:00 AM
- Live Broadcast and Streaming Details: JioStar Network Channels and JioHotstar (App and Website)
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