South Africa vs Australia Prediction & Match Preview – 2nd ODI, Wanderers

South Africa lead the series 1-0 going into the second ODI against Australia at The Wanderers in Johannesburg on Sunday 27 September.

In the opener South Africa lost early wickets, but Matthew Breetzke anchored the innings with 112 from 106 balls and Marco Jansen added 75 from 59, taking the total to 298. Keshav Maharaj then took 4/20 from 9.2 overs while Corbin Bosch and Bjorn Fortuin took two wickets each. Quinton de Kock has scored 367 runs at an average of 61.17 and Breetzke has 355 in nine matches at 50.71.

Australia raced past 90 in the first powerplay of their chase. Mitchell Marsh made 60 off 36, Matt Renshaw 44, and Travis Head and Cooper Connolly got starts, but wickets fell and they were bowled out for 230. Nathan Ellis took 3/57 and Adam Zampa two. Connolly has 375 runs in eight ODIs at 46.88, Josh Inglis has 334 in 10 matches, and Ellis has 22 wickets in nine.

With match-winners in both camps, another competitive game looks likely on the quick Wanderers pitch. A score of 275 or more would be a strong first-innings total.

Probable playing XI

Pitch report

The Wanderers is known for a hard, fast surface with plenty of pace, bounce and carry, and it is generally high-scoring. Seam and extra bounce can make the early overs tricky, but batters can play freely once set, helped by the altitude and a quick outfield. Spinners usually have a smaller role. Expect a big total, with the expected scores below as the guide for this ODI.

Weather

Mostly sunny and dry at around 22°C for the 10:00 am local start, with little sign of significant rain. Temperatures should rise gradually, so conditions look comfortable and the risk of interruption is low.

Expected scores

• 1st innings: 265–285
• 2nd innings: 235–255