South Africa scripted history in Mackay as Lungi Ngidi created a match-winning spell to strengthen the Proteas to an 84-run victory against Australia in the second ODI of the three-match series. Moreover, it has helped the team to seal a series 2-0 with a game in hand. Therefore, it has continued its authority in the one-day format.
Ngidi’s Five-Wicket Brilliance
Fast bowler Lungi Ngidi becomes the star of the match by finishing with outstanding figures of 5/42. In addition, he dismissed key players, like Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis, Aaron Hardie, Xavier Bartlett, and Adam Zampa. So, he destroyed the middle and lower orders of Australia.
Therefore, it marked the second five-wicket haul of Ngidi in the ODIs with both against Australia. Hence, this milestone put him among perfect names, like Shane Bond, Curtly Ambrose, and Trent Boult.
Moreover, his performance ensured that South Africa became the first team to claim two five-wicket hauls in the same ODI series against Australia on their home soil. Also, Keshav Maharaj accomplished this in the first ODI.
Proteas Shine With the Bat
Earlier, South Africa recovered from an early collapse due to Matthew Breetzke (88) and Tristan Stubbs (74), who shared an 89-run stand for the fourth wicket. Despite losing wickets towards the end, the guests managed to score 277 with all out because Adam Zampa picked up three scalps for Australia. Once again, Australia faltered with the bat in reply. Besides Adam Zampa, no other batters managed to stay at the crease. So, the host bundled out for 193 in 38 overs.
Australia’s ODI Struggles Continue
The loss is the third consecutive bilateral ODI series defeat for Australia after setbacks against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Notably, the team has also failed to cross the mark of 200 runs in their four completed ODIs. So, it has become a worrying trend before significant tournaments.
Markram Praises Lungi Ngidi
Captain Aiden Markram appreciated the team efforts of South Africa. In addition, he highlighted the match-winning performance of Ngidi. He said, “With this result, South Africa has registered their fifth consecutive bilateral ODI series win over Australia and have now won 17 out of 21 head-to-head ODIs. The performance of Lungi Ngidi is a reminder of the depth and dominance of the pace attack, which is thriving in the challenging conditions.
Read more:
