South Africa captain Temba Bavuma and wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock were seen having a heated chat during slog overs of Australia’s run chase in the second ODI of the series on September 28. Xavier Bartlett was keeping Australia’s hopes alive single-handedly with a record-equalling 26-ball half-century. In the 48th over, Lizaad Williams managed to beat the Aussie bowling all-rounder's bat with a yorker. Williams appealed for lbw but the appeal was turned out. Bavuma was talking to the bowler and wicketkeeper before taking the review when the latter did not seem happy about something and the two engaged in a heated conversation.
Marco Jansen tried to douse the flames with a laugh but De Kock wasn’t happy as he moved back. Eventually, Bavuma’s late DRS call was in South Africa’s favour as the decision was overturned and Bartlett was given out lbw.
Australia 333 allout
When Bartlett departed, Australia needed 44 more runs from remaining 14 deliveries. It was too big an ask for tailenders Nathan Ellis and Josh Hazlewood. They could only add 11 runs to the score. Williams dismissed Hazlewood off the penultimate delivery of the innings as Australia were bowled out for 333, losing the match by 32 runs. The score of 333 is Australia’s highest in a losing ODI run chase.
Bartlett equals Head’s record
Bartlett’s fiery half-century went in vain but he equalled Travis Head’s record for the fastest ODI fifty for Australia against South Africa. Three years ago, Head had reached his fifty from 26 balls against the Proteas as well.
Bavuma scores ton, De Kock out early
Earlier in the second ODI, De Kock was dismissed cheaply by Josh Hazlewood. For the second consecutive ODI, he was dismissed caught behind. But, Bavuma went on to score his sixth ODI century. He scored 103 runs from 116 balls. Later, David Miller's 93-ball 142 laced with nine sixes and 12 fours helped Proteas post a huge total of 365/9 on the board.
The third and final ODI of the series will be played on September 30 at Senwes Park, Potchefstroom.