Mackay, August 22, 2025 – South Africa continued their dominance over Australia in the One-Day International (ODI) format, clinching a decisive 84-run victory in the second match at the Great Barrier Reef Arena. The win, powered by a phenomenal five-wicket haul from Lungi Ngidi, handed the Proteas an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Opting to bat first, South Africa posted a competitive total with Matthew Breetzke and Tristan Stubbs starring with commanding knocks of over 70 runs each. Breetzke made history by becoming the first player to score four consecutive half-centuries in his first four ODIs. Valuable contributions from Tony de Zorzi, Wiaan Mulder, and Keshav Maharaj ensured the scoreboard kept ticking, while Adam Zampa was the standout bowler for Australia with three wickets.
Ngidi’s Masterclass with the Ball
In response, Australia faltered early, losing Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne cheaply. Cameron Green and Josh Inglis provided some resistance with a 67-run stand, but once that partnership was broken, the innings collapsed. Inglis top-scored with a fighting 87, yet lacked support as South Africa’s bowlers tightened the screws.
Lungi Ngidi was the star of the show, striking early and often to dismantle Australia’s batting order. Bowling with precision and variation, Ngidi mixed cross-seam deliveries with changes in pace, keeping the opposition guessing. His clinical five-wicket haul not only sealed the game but also earned him the Player of the Match award.
Post-Match Reactions
Ngidi credited his success to staying patient and exploiting pitch conditions. He acknowledged the absence of Kagiso Rabada, noting that it was crucial for him to step up and deliver.
South Africa’s captain Aiden Markram praised his team’s all-round effort, highlighting that multiple players contributed to the victory and applauding Lungi Ngidi for his match-winning spell.
Australia’s skipper Mitchell Marsh expressed disappointment over his side’s batting collapse but acknowledged South Africa’s superior performance, particularly the relentless pressure applied by Ngidi and his bowling unit.
What’s Next?
With the series already secured, South Africa now aims for a clean sweep in the third and final ODI on August 24, 2025. Meanwhile, Australia will look to salvage pride and end the series on a high.