South Africa Strike Early as Australia Chase 278 in Second ODI

South Africa posted 277 in 49.1 overs, leaving Australia a chase of 278 to level the series. The visitors started watchfully, but South Africa landed the first blow.

Nandre Burger dismissed Travis Head for 6, caught by skipper Aiden Markram at mid-off. The early wicket has slowed Australia’s reply to 6 for 1 in 2.2 overs. Captain Mitchell Marsh is still at the crease, alot is expected from him, but he is yet to open his account after facing five balls.

The required run rate of 5.71 is bearable for now, with Australia needing 272 runs from 47.4 overs. South Africa’s lead bowlers like Burger and Lungi Ngidi are sure to keep tight in the opening spell.

The Proteas know the value of early wickets on this surface. Australia, however, has depth in the middle order with Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, and Josh Inglis. They can turn the game in just 5 overs.

Can the top order weather this storm, or will South Africa tighten the grip before the chase settles? Watch everything live on Tapmad.

With the live win probability tilting 55 percent towards Australia and 45 percent for South Africa, the contest is still wide open. One partnership could change the game, but another early strike may put the visitors in real trouble.