Australia vs South Africa Preview & Prediction | First One-Day International

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Following an enthralling T20i series, Australia and South Africa are set to do battle again, this time in the 50-over format.

Date/time:

Venue: Cazaly's Stadium, Cairns, Australia

Weather: Dry and sunny with temperatures in the mid-twenties.

How to watch: UK – TNT Sports / USA – Willow TV

Australia vs South Africa prediction

By the time these two nations step out onto the field again, only three days will have passed since Australia’s dramatic two-wicket victory which saw them win the rubber match of the three-game T20i series between them and South Africa. Glenn Maxwell was the hero for the hosts, his 62 not out seeing Australia home as they successfully chased down 173 with just one ball remaining.

Now, attention turns to ODI cricket and the most successful team will be the one which adapts the fastest to the change in format. There will be changes, Maxwell won’t feature having retired from ODIs and neither will Steve Smith. But despite this, Australia’s batting line-up remains formidable and even the bowling attack looks good with Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood and Adam Zampa all available, despite the likes of Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc being rested.

South Africa are expected to hand Dewald Brevis his ODI debut after an outstanding T20i series and Temba Bavuma will lead the side. But on paper, their team doesn’t boast the same depth as their opponents from a batting perspective and facing bowlers such as Hazlewood and Zampa for ten overs each will prove extremely tough. Therefore, back Australia to replicate their good start in the T20i series and win the first ODI.

Australia vs South Africa tip: Australia to win