Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh under pressure – Australia chases South Africa target

MACKAY: Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh took charge of Australia’s innings as they chase 278 runs to level the series against South Africa in the second one-day international (ODI) in Mackay.

At 13.4 overs, Australia were 56 for three. Early wickets had put the hosts under pressure. Head and Marsh steadied the innings with calculated shot selection and strike rotation.

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Travis Head faced 26 balls, scoring 14 runs. He played with discipline against a probing South African attack. His ability to find gaps and rotate strike eased pressure on the Australia batting line-up.

Mitchell Marsh played his shots more freely, scoring 18 runs off 25 balls. Early in his innings, the 33-year-old hit boundaries, including a powerful 4 off spinner Nandre Burger.

The Aussie’s intent helped Australia gain momentum. However, the breakthrough came in the ninth over when Wiaan Mulder trapped Marsh caught behind. Corbin Bosch held a good catch at mid-on, ending Marsh’s innings.

Josh Inglis and Cameron Green supported the top order. Inglis scored 17 runs from 17 balls, while Green was on 14 from 26 bas at the latest update.

Both batters played cautiously, focusing on building partnerships and keeping the run rate manageable.

South Africa’s bowling varied. Mulder impressed with his length and movement. He bowled 2.4 overs for 15 runs and picked two wickets, including Marsh’s critical dismissal.

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Spinner Keshav Maharaj used changes of pace and flight to chess the Australia batters. His bowling created pressure, limiting easy scoring opportunities.

South Africa’s total of 277 was build on strong batting performances despite early wickets. Matthew Breetzke scored the highest with 88 runs. He formed important partnership with Tony de Zorzi and Tristan Stubbs. de Zorzi scored 38, while Stubbs scored 74.

Adam Zampa took three wickets for Australia, while Nathan Ellis and Marnus Labuschagne also chipped in.

Australia’s current required run rate (RRR) stands at 6.11 with 222 runs needed for 36.2 overs. The chase remains hard but achievable.

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Much will depend on how Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Josh Inglis and Cameron Green approach the middle orders.

The series currently stands at 1-0 in South Africa’s favour.