The Proteas have delivered a stunning performance, securing an 84-run victory against Australia in the second one-day international at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay! Lungi Ngidi was the hero with the ball, claiming a brilliant 5-42, while Matthew Breetzke and Tristan Stubbs shone with the bat, guiding South Africa to a competitive total of 277.
Ngidi's masterful use of the slower ball proved too much for the Australian lower order, dismantling their chase. He was well supported by Nandre Burger (2-23) and Senuran Muthusamy (2-30), who kept the pressure on the Aussie batsmen.
Australia's Josh Inglis fought hard, top-scoring with a rapid 87 off 74 balls, but Ngidi's variations proved his undoing. Earlier, Burger removed the dangerous Travis Head cheaply, while Ngidi tempted Marnus Labuschagne into an edge to wicketkeeper Ryan Rickelton. Wiaan Mulder also contributed, taking a catch off his own bowling to dismiss Mitch Marsh.
Earlier in the day, South Africa's innings was built on a solid foundation laid by Breetzke (88) and Tony de Zorzi (38). After losing early wickets, the pair combined for a crucial 67-run partnership. Breetzke was particularly impressive, hitting two sixes and eight fours in his entertaining innings. His knock follows a string of impressive performances, making him a key player for the Proteas.
The Australian seamers tried to stifle the Proteas with slower-ball bouncers, but Breetzke and Stubbs were equal to the task, finding the boundary with regularity. Ultimately, the Proteas' all-round performance proved too strong for the Aussies, securing a memorable victory and series lead.
Key Moments:
- Ngidi's 5-wicket haul.
- Breetzke's impressive half-century.
- Solid contributions from Stubbs and De Zorzi.
- Tight bowling from Burger and Muthusamy.
What's Next?
The Proteas will be looking to build on this victory and secure the series in the next match. With Ngidi in top form and the batting lineup firing, they will be confident of another strong showing.