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South Africa and Australia will lock horns in the third and final ODI of the three-match series at the JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom on September 30. The Proteas have already sealed the series after winning the opening two games, but Australia will be determined to avoid a clean sweep and finish the ODI leg of the tour on a positive note.
While the first two games have produced plenty of runs, the bowlers have also played a major role in shaping the contests. South Africa’s attack has repeatedly found ways to break Australia’s middle order, while the visitors have had individual moments of brilliance despite conceding substantial totals.
Here are top 3 bowlers to watch out for in 3rd ODI:
Keshav Maharaj will once again be one of South Africa’s most important bowling options, particularly after his effective display in the second ODI at the Wanderers.
The left-arm spinner finished with figures of 2/54 from his 10 overs and played a crucial role in Australia’s chase. He dismissed Alex Carey and Matt Renshaw, two batters who could have helped Australia build momentum during the middle overs.
Maharaj’s ability to bowl economically while constantly challenging batters makes him particularly valuable in ODI cricket. Australia’s top order has produced strong starts in both matches, but South Africa have repeatedly managed to slow the scoring rate once the opening partnership has been broken.
The Potchefstroom surface could once again bring spin into the contest. South Africa’s ODI series guide notes that while pace generally performs strongly at the venues on this tour, spin can also be economical and remains an important part of the attack.
With Australia’s middle order still searching for consistency, Maharaj’s spell through the middle overs could have a significant impact on the final ODI.
Josh Hazlewood remains Australia’s most experienced frontline bowling option and will be expected to lead the attack once again.
The right-arm seamer has already made an impact in the series. In the second ODI, Hazlewood dismissed Aiden Markram for a duck and Quinton de Kock for 15 before returning later to finish with three wickets. However, he conceded 70 runs from his 10 overs as South Africa posted a mammoth 365/9.
Hazlewood’s strength lies in his ability to maintain disciplined lines and lengths for long periods. Against South Africa’s aggressive batting unit, he will need to provide early breakthroughs and prevent the hosts from establishing another dominant platform.
The Proteas have already demonstrated their ability to score heavily, with David Miller smashing 142 off 93 balls and Temba Bavuma contributing 103 in the second ODI.
Hazlewood’s battle against the South African top order will therefore be one of the key subplots of the final match. If he can make early inroads, Australia could put pressure on the hosts before their powerful middle order gets going.
Jack Edwards has emerged as one of Australia’s most intriguing bowling options during the series and produced an outstanding individual performance in Johannesburg.
Playing only his second ODI, Edwards claimed five wickets for 67 runs from his 10 overs. His wickets included the important dismissals of Temba Bavuma and David Miller, the two centurions who had powered South Africa’s innings.
Although his economy rate was high, Edwards’ ability to strike regularly gives Australia another useful pace-bowling option. His five-wicket haul also showed that he can make an impact against a strong batting lineup.
Edwards was added to Australia’s ODI squad after Billy Stanlake was ruled out and has quickly taken his opportunity.
With the series already decided, Australia could continue giving Edwards valuable exposure as the team looks towards the next phase of its ODI preparations. Another strong performance in Potchefstroom would provide further confidence in his ability to contribute at international level.
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