Xavier Bartlett strikes early to shake South Africa’s top order

MACKAY: Xavier Bartlett played a critical role as South Africa set Australia a target of 277 in the second one-day international in Mackay.

The 26-year-old bowled with control and precision. He took two early wickets, destabilising South Africa’s top order. His first victim was Aiden Markram, the stand-in captain, who fell for a duck.

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Xavier Bartlett also took out Ryan Rickelton, finishing with two wickets for 45 runs in nine overs.

Despite the early setback, South Africa rebuilt through important partnerships. Tony de Zorzi and Matthew Breetzke added 67 runs, stabilising the innings. de Zorzi’s fluent batting provided momentum but he was dismissed by Adam Zampa.

Matthew Breetzke went on to score 88, including eight boundaries and two 6s. He then shared an 89-run stand with Tristan Stubbs, who scored 74 before being caught by Cameron Green off Zampa.

Meanwhile, Adam Zampa was Australia’s main wicket-taker, claiming three for 63. Nathan Ellis took two wickets, while Marnus Labuschagne bowled well to take 2 for 19. Josh Hazlewood picked up the last wicket.

South Africa’s tail-enders added a much-needed late on. Keshav Maharaj was unbeaten on 22, hitting a 6 to boost the total to 277.

Australia’s response began cautiously. Openers Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head played carefully against tight bowling by Nandre Burger and Lungi Ngidi. After 1.4 overs, Australia were 2 without loss but faced a required run rate of 5.71.

Burger impressed the crowd with his probing bowling, conceding just a single run in his first over.

Xavier Bartlett was pleased with his performance. “Happy to have taken early wickets”, he said. “Out spinners and fielders backed us up well. It was a true team effort”.

The pressure is now on Australia to build partnerships and chase the target. South Africa will be hoping their bowlers can maintain pressure and defend the total.

Read more: Matthew Breetzke leads South Africa’s revival against Australia

South Africa won the first ODI by 98 runs and nw lead the three-match series 1-0. Australia is looking to claw their way to victory in the second ODI.