South Africa vs Australia – 5th One-Day International – Preview & Prediction
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THE FACTS
When is South Africa vs Australia on and what time does it start? South Africa vs Australia will take place on Sunday 17th September, 2023 – 09:00 (UK)
Where is South Africa vs Australia taking place? South Africa vs Australia will take place at New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
What channel is South Africa vs Australia on in the UK? South Africa vs Australia will be televised in the UK live on Sky Sports
Where can I stream South Africa vs Australia in the UK? Sky Sports subscribers in the UK can stream South Africa vs Australia on Sky Go
THE LOWDOWN
SOUTH AFRICA
An extraordinary display of batting brutality by South Africa and Heinrich Klaasen especially, saw the Proteas rack up 416/5 against Australia in the fourth ODI. Klaasen showed why he is arguably the most dangerous power hitter in the game today, smashing 174 from just 83 balls, including a ridiculous 13 sixes and just as many fours. Such a score was always likely to prove enough (although you never know when these two nations collide). Pace-bowlers Lungi Ngidi and Kagiso Rabada took seven wickets between them as South Africa bowled Australia out for 252, squaring the series after having been 0-2 down.
AUSTRALIA
The fourth ODI was one to forget for Australia’s bowlers and Adam Zampa in particular. The spinner recorded the joint-worst bowling figures in ODI history, matching fellow Australian Mick Lewis’ 113 runs conceded from ten overs without taking a wicket, also away against South Africa. It got worse for the Aussies, opener Travis Head being forced to retire hurt due to a fractured hand, which must now put his World Cup participation in serious doubt. Alex Carey being dismissed for 99 in an eventual 164-run defeat was the cherry on top of a fairly horrible caske from the tourists’ point of view.
THE PREDICTION
All the momentum is now with South Africa following the previous two games and Australia already have history this past few months when it comes to blowing two-nil series leads. Whilst you would expect a much better showing with the ball from the tourists, South Africa’s batters are now really cooking when it comes to scoring boundaries and putting pressure on their opponents. Head’s expected absence creates another unwanted headache for Australia and it would be no surprise if their focus has perhaps slightly shifted as a result with the World Cup fast approaching. Therefore, the smart move is to back South Africa to complete the series comeback and beat Australia again.
BETTING TIP: SOUTH AFRICA TO WIN
