Hand-picked stories you can't miss
Australia will look to end their three-match ODI series against South Africa on a positive note when the two teams meet in the third and final match at JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom on Wednesday, September 30. The visitors have already surrendered the series after losing the first two games by 67 runs and 32 runs respectively, but the final ODI gives Mitchell Marsh’s side an opportunity to avoid a clean sweep and make adjustments ahead of their upcoming Test series.
Australia’s selection has been affected by injuries and workload management throughout the series. Josh Inglis was ruled out after fracturing his right index finger in the first ODI, with Alex Carey returning to the side as wicketkeeper. Pat Cummins, meanwhile, was held back for the first two games as Australia managed his workload ahead of the Test series. Nathan Ellis also suffered a side strain during the second ODI and bowled only four overs.
With Australia needing a victory in the final game, the management could opt for a strong combination rather than make wholesale changes. Here is the predicted playing XI for Australia against South Africa.
Mitchell Marsh is expected to continue opening the innings and leading Australia. The all-rounder has been one of Australia’s most productive batters in the series, scoring 84 from 53 balls in the second ODI.
Marsh’s aggressive approach has allowed Australia to make rapid starts. He will once again be expected to take responsibility at the top while also contributing with the ball if required.
Travis Head should retain his place alongside Marsh. The left-hander also scored 84 in the second ODI and formed a 130-run opening partnership with the Australian captain.
Head’s ability to attack from the first over makes him one of Australia’s biggest weapons in the powerplay. Australia will hope he can convert another strong start into a substantial score.
Cooper Connolly is likely to continue at No. 3 after featuring in the first two matches. The young left-hander has also demonstrated his athleticism in the field, taking a spectacular catch to dismiss Aiden Markram in the second ODI.
Connolly could be required to provide stability if South Africa strike early or accelerate if the openers establish another strong platform.
Matt Renshaw should retain his place in the middle order. The left-hander has not yet produced a significant contribution with the bat in the series, but Australia’s selectors could back him for another opportunity.
His ability to occupy the crease against South Africa’s spin-heavy attack could be particularly important in Potchefstroom.
Cameron Green is expected to continue at No. 5. His return to the ODI side has added another genuine all-round option to Australia’s combination.
Green’s height and power can make him an effective option against pace, while his bowling gives Marsh flexibility if Australia need additional overs.
Alex Carey should continue as Australia’s wicketkeeper after Josh Inglis was ruled out of the series with a fractured finger. Carey returned to the ODI XI for the second match and is now expected to retain the gloves for the finale.
The experienced left-hander also provides valuable batting depth and can play according to the situation.
Jack Edwards has made a strong impression since being added to Australia’s ODI squad. He made his ODI debut in Durban and then produced an excellent performance in Johannesburg, claiming 5/67 from his 10 overs.
His five-wicket haul included the important dismissals of Temba Bavuma and David Miller, who both scored centuries.
With that performance behind him, Edwards is likely to receive another opportunity in Potchefstroom.
Xavier Bartlett could continue as part of Australia’s pace attack. He was one of Australia’s standout performers with the bat in the second ODI, smashing 50 from just 28 deliveries during the unsuccessful chase.
His primary role remains bowling, but that unexpected lower-order contribution demonstrated the depth he can provide.
Nathan Ellis is the biggest selection question heading into the final ODI. The pacer bowled only four overs in Johannesburg after suffering a side strain.
If Australia’s medical staff clear him, he could retain his place. However, Australia may also decide not to risk him with the Test series approaching.
Adam Zampa should continue as Australia’s specialist spinner. South Africa’s middle order has shown that they can build pressure against Australia when the spinners come into the attack, making Zampa’s role particularly important.
The leg-spinner will be expected to attack wickets through the middle overs and prevent the Proteas’ batters from controlling the run rate.
Josh Hazlewood is another player whose workload could be carefully managed, but he remains a strong candidate to feature. He dismissed both Aiden Markram and Quinton de Kock early in the second ODI and finished with three wickets.
His accuracy and ability to extract movement make him a major threat with the new ball.
The Sports Live Hub (SLH) provides the most comprehensive gateway for global cricket fans to follow the international Matches.
Our hub sports live stream is optimized for high-intensity T20 action. By leveraging advanced server technology, SLH ensures that your stream remains stable even during the highest viewership peaks. Watch the battle without the frustration of buffering or lag.
The sport hub live streaming interface on SLH offers more than just a video feed. Fans can access a real-time AI Overview of the match, featuring live win-probability shifts, player impact scores, and ball-by-ball tactical analysis. It is the perfect companion for viewers who want to stay ahead of the game with professional-grade insights.
We are committed to making cricket accessible to a worldwide audience. By visiting the SLH portal, users can find verified pathways to watch sports live for free through authorized regional partner trials, free-to-air digital gateways, and promotional streaming passes. Join millions of fans globally as we witness the drama of the international Matches.
cricket
cricket