AllCricket  

4 hrs

Australia leads the ODI series 2-0 after Smith`s century secures a thrilling win against South Africa.

Australia has taken a commanding 2-0 lead in the five-match ODI series against South Africa after a thrilling 3-wicket victory in the second ODI at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Chasing a target of 276, Australia reached 277/7 with 5 balls to spare, thanks to a match-winning century from Steve Smith, who scored 112 off 131 balls. Smith anchored the chase after Australia lost early wickets, forming crucial partnerships with Marnus Labuschagne (43) and Alex Carey (37).

For South Africa, Kagiso Rabada was the standout bowler, finishing with figures of 3/56. Earlier, the Proteas posted 275/7 in their 50 overs, with Rassie van der Dussen top-scoring with 85 runs, while David Miller added a late flourish with 65 off 51 balls. Nathan Ellis shone for Australia with the ball, taking 3/44.

Smith was named Player of the Match for his century under pressure. Australian captain Steve Smith praised his team`s resilience, stating, "It wasn`t an easy chase on a pitch that was slowing down." South African skipper Temba Bavuma lamented his team`s inability to post a bigger total, saying they were "probably 20-30 runs short." The series now moves to a potential decider in the third ODI, with South Africa needing to win to keep their hopes alive.

#ODISeries,#SteveSmith,#Cricket,#Australia,#SouthAfrica