South Africa Win ODI Series 2-1 as Australia Salvage Consolation Win in Rain-Hit Finale

Australia avoided a series whitewash, beating South Africa by 45 runs via DLS in a rain-affected third ODI at Potchefstroom, with the hosts sealing the three-match series 2-1.

Put in to bat, Australia posted 322 for 9, built on half-centuries from Alex Carey (74) and captain Mitchell Marsh (56), with Ollie Peake adding 48. Corbin Bosch was the pick of the South African bowlers with 4 for 60. Adam Zampa then struck twice in the middle overs to peg back the chase, and with Tony de Zorzi forced off with a hamstring injury, South Africa were 145 for 4 off 28 overs, with Ryan Rickelton unbeaten on 71, when persistent rain ended the match and handed the result to Australia on DLS.

South Africa had already secured the series with wins in the first two matches at the Wanderers, but the washout denied them a clean sweep. Pat Cummins's return and a revival in form from Zampa and Carey were the key factors behind Australia salvaging a consolation win. The two sides now turn to a three-Test series, beginning in Durban on October 9.