In a thrilling clash at the JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom, South Africa’s spin bowlers combined their talents with a brilliant century by Aiden Markram to halt Australia’s winning streak. The hosts secured a commanding 111-run victory in the third one-day international, dramatically changing the series dynamics.

Aiden Markram was the star of the show, remaining unbeaten with a magnificent 102 as South Africa posted a formidable total of 338 for six.

Australia had dominated the series initially, claiming victory in the first two games following their impressive 3-0 sweep in the T20 series.

The tourists appeared poised for another win as David Warner and Travis Head launched a furious assault, amassing 79 runs for the first wicket in just 48 balls. By the end of the 10-over power play, Australia had reached a commanding 104 for one for the second consecutive game under fielding restrictions.

However, left-arm spinners Tabraiz Shamsi (two for 29) and Keshav Maharaj (two for 37) turned the game in South Africa’s favor on a spin-friendly pitch. Their efforts, combined with Gerald Coetzee’s excellent bowling (four for 50), eventually dismantled the Australian innings.

Keshav Maharaj also made a pivotal contribution in the field, executing a direct-hit run-out of Warner, who had scored an impressive 78 off 56 balls before an unfortunate slip caused him to lose his shoe while attempting a single.

South African captain Temba Bavuma expressed his relief, saying, “We needed a positive one.” He praised the batting performance and the impact of the spin bowlers.

Australian captain Mitchell Marsh viewed the loss as a minor setback, acknowledging that the conditions in this match could be replicated during the upcoming World Cup in India, suggesting that the experience would be valuable.

Quinton de Kock (82) and Temba Bavuma (57) laid a solid foundation with an opening partnership of 146 runs in 22.5 overs. While Australia managed to slow down the scoring rate, Markram and Marco Jansen’s partnership of 63 runs off 31 balls provided a late boost to South Africa’s innings, ending with a spectacular diving left-handed catch by Sean Abbott on the cover boundary off Nathan Ellis.