South Africa Clinches ODI Series Against Australia with Stellar Performances

In a thrilling second ODI, South Africa defeated Australia by 32 runs, securing the series with a 2-0 lead. David Miller's explosive century and Temba Bavuma's solid performance propelled the Proteas to a formidable total. Despite a strong start from Australia, they fell short in their chase. This match highlighted significant statistical milestones and showcased the prowess of both teams. Read on for a detailed breakdown of the match's key moments and performances.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 27, 2026, 23:32 IST

South Africa Triumphs in Second ODI

In a thrilling encounter at Johannesburg, South Africa secured a 32-run victory over Australia in the second ODI of their three-match series on Sunday. This win allowed South Africa to clinch the series with a 2-0 lead. David Miller was the standout performer, scoring an impressive 142 runs off 93 balls, featuring 12 fours and nine sixes. His explosive innings showcased that even in his late 30s, he remains a formidable force in the game.

This victory marks South Africa's sixth consecutive ODI series win against Australia and their tenth win out of 16 series encounters.

Twin Centuries Propel South Africa to a Strong Total

Both David Miller and captain Temba Bavuma contributed significantly, leading South Africa to a total of 365/9. After Australia chose to bowl first, the Proteas found themselves struggling at 93/3. However, a remarkable partnership of 156 runs for the fourth wicket between Bavuma, who scored 103 runs off 116 balls with 10 fours and two sixes, and Miller turned the game around.

Notable Statistical Achievements

Miller's performance continued his impressive record against Australia, amassing 1,184 runs in 28 ODI innings against them, averaging 59.2 with a strike rate nearing 107, including four centuries and six fifties. This match marked his 31st fifty-plus score batting at five or lower, surpassing the previous record held by Jonty Rhodes. Additionally, Miller's eight ODI centuries now tie him with England's Jos Buttler for the most centuries in this batting position, surpassing Indian legends Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni, who each have seven.

Bavuma's century was his fifth as captain, tying him with Faf du Plessis, but he still trails behind AB de Villiers, who holds the record with 13 centuries as a Proteas skipper.

Aussie Bowler Achieves Historic Feat

In a notable achievement for the Australian bowling lineup, one pace-bowling all-rounder took 5 wickets for 67 runs, becoming the second Australian after Nathan Bracken to achieve an ODI five-wicket haul against South Africa on home soil. He joins a select group of five Aussie bowlers who have accomplished this feat against the Proteas.

Australia's Chase Falls Short

In their pursuit of a massive target, Australia started strong with Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head both scoring 84 runs, contributing to a solid opening partnership of 130 runs. However, the momentum waned as they fell to 251/6. Despite efforts from Jack Edwards and Xavier Bartlett, who scored 25 and 50 runs respectively, Australia was ultimately bowled out for 333 in 49.5 overs. Lizaad Williams (3/54), Marco Jansen (2/53), Keshav Maharaj (2/54), and Bjorn Fortuin (2/70) were the standout bowlers for South Africa. Miller's explosive performance earned him the 'Player of the Match' accolade.