South Africa vs Australia, 3rd ODI, Potchefstroom – Preview, likely XIs, prediction

South Africa can’t be in a better place. They won their first series in 12 months in Bloemfontein, in stunning fashion, with a game to spare. When they meet Australia in Potchefstroom on Sunday, it will be the bunch from Down Under trying to get a consolatory win.

South Africa’s new era technically began when they took on England in January, when the new management and higher-ups took over, but the signs of progress weren’t immediate. It’s gradually becoming evident now. There have been the odd performances in the T20Is, but the consistency was never there.

That’s slowly coming now. Two consecutive wins against a mighty Australian side will boost their morale significantly, both in the team and in new captain Quinton de Kock. Selection choices are coming good – Janneman Malan scored a century, while Jon-Jon Smuts’ move up the order worked wonders. Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller continued their good form, before Lungi Ngidi shot out Australia with his 6/58. It was a complete performance.

However, the work has just begun. More of these displays, consistently stitched together, is where the team needs to get to. And Australia can give them a reality check come Sunday. Despite the series loss, they remain a formidable side. And they’ll be hurting. If South Africa can string another victory a wounded, there’ll be no surer sign of progress.

Head to head

South Africa have pulled away from Australia in their head-to-head record. They have now won 50 of their 102 ODIs, with Australia winning 48. A sweep will be most welcome for the home side.

Key players

Lungi Ngidi (South Africa): Australia’s batsmen haven’t gotten much breathing room this series, and that’s thanks to Ngidi, who has been in stellar form. His 6/58 dismantled the Aussies, and he is once again expected to be a big threat.

Marnus Labuschagne (Australia): Labuschagne’s rise has been so quick, that he’s already an integral part of the side. Their middle order needs the runs though, and that’s where his golden duck in the last outing cost Australia. All eyes are on him now.

Likely XIs

South Africa: Quinton de Kock, Janneman Malan, Jon-Jon Smuts, Kyle Verreynne, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Andile Phehlukwayo, Keshav Maharaj, Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi

Australia: David Warner, Aaron Finch, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey, D’Arcy Short, Ashton Agar, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Adam Zampa

Prediction

South Africa to win and complete the sweep.