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South African skipper Temba Bavuma's century went in vain, as concussion substitute Marnus Labuschagne, who has also been left out of Australia's ODI squad, guided them to victory on a day dominated by fast bowlers. It was a poetic moment for Labuschagne, whose innings was reminiscent of the Ashes in 2019 after a Jofra Archer bouncer left Steve Smith helpless and made Labuschagne the first concussion substitute. This time around he saved Cameron Green and also led his team to victory with an innings of 80 runs
South Africa's struggle at 100 for 5
Australia won the toss and chose to bowl first. a decision that seemed to work as South Africa's start was far from ideal, losing two wickets with just 33 runs on the board. Aiden Markram tried to steady the ship with a brisk 19 off 14 balls, but his innings was cut short by Cameron Green after the skipper's shot skied into wicketkeeper Alex Carey's hands. Both Heinrich Klaasen (14) and David Miller (0) then departed cheaply as well, leaving South Africa reeling at 100 for 5.
Captain Temba Bavuma's resilient century
Despite the early setbacks, South African captain Temba Bavuma stood firm, crafting a masterful 114 off 142 balls, including 14 boundaries and a six. With some support from Marco Jansen, who contributed a handy 32 off 40 balls, South Africa managed to post a competitive total of 222. For Australia, Josh Hazlewood was the pick of the bowlers with three wickets, while Marcus Stoinis chipped in with two.
Green's unfortunate blow
Chasing 223, Australia's innings didn't start on a positive note either, losing two wickets with only 38 runs on the board. The situation turned grimmer in the 6th over when a fierce delivery from Kagiso Rabada struck Cameron Green directly on the head. The impact was so severe that Green had to retire hurt. In came Marnus Labuschagne as a concussion substitute, a role he wasn't initially slated for but was called upon due to Steve Smith's absence.
Australia's Dismal 113 for 7
Despite the setback from Green's injury, Australia's woes continued. The team found itself in a dire situation at 113 for 7. However, Labuschagne, batting at number 8, combined forces with Ashton Agar to steer the innings.
Concussion Substitute Labuschagne turns the tide
Labuschagne and Agar formed a crucial partnership, taking on the South African bowlers and providing a fitting reply to their early onslaught. They set up a partnership of 113 runs for the eighth wicket as the Proteas let the match slip away from their hands and suffered a three-wicket loss.
