Australia finally managed to stop South Africa from completing a 3–0 ODI series sweep, defeating the Proteas by 45 runs with the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method in the third and final ODI at Senwes Park, Potchefstroom, on September 30, 2026.
South Africa had already sealed the three-match series 2–0 after impressive wins in Durban and Johannesburg. So the final game was a chance for Australia to regain some pride before the Test series.
Australia Post Strong 322/9
After being asked to bat first, Australia produced their most convincing batting performance of the series.
Alex Carey made 74 off 88 balls and Mitchell Marsh made a brisk half-century. Ollie Peake also made a great 48 helping Australia to 322/9 in 50 overs.
The Australian innings was much more stable than their performances in the first two ODIs. Their top and middle order built partnerships instead of allowing South Africa's spinners to dictate the contest.
The total gave Australia a good base, especially with rain threatening to disrupt the second innings.
South Africa Struggle in the Chase
South Africa’s chase never achieved the momentum that would have been required to challenge Australia’s total.
The Proteas lost early wickets, including Quinton de Kock, and struggled to keep a consistent scoring rate against the Australian attack.
Ryan Rickelton provided resistance with an unbeaten 71 but wickets fell around him. South Africa went to 145/4 after 28 overs when persistent rain stopped play.
At this stage the required DLS target left South Africa 45 runs short of the par score. No further play was possible, Australia won by 45 runs under the DLS method.
Australia Avoid 3–0 Whitewash
The result ended Australia’s hopes of winning the bilateral ODI series, but it prevented a clean sweep.
South Africa had dominated the opening two matches. They won the first ODI in Durban by 67 runs, with Matthew Breetzke scoring 112 and Keshav Maharaj taking four wickets.
In the second ODI at Johannesburg, South Africa once again defeated Australia with a victory to take an unassailable 2-0 series lead over Australia.
Australia therefore came into the third match under pressure to respond. As a result of their positive batting performance and victory, they had some momentum before the Test series.
ODI SERIES WINNERS! 🇿🇦🏆#TheProteas take the ODI series against Australia with a special shoutout to Keshav Maharaj, our Player of the Series! 👏
— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) September 30, 2026
But we’re not done yet… 👀The Test battle begins 9 October. Time to defend our turf in a replay of last year’s World Test… pic.twitter.com/5Nw9OYN77D
Carey, Marsh and Zampa Make the Difference
The Australian victory was built on contributions from several experienced players.
Carey’s 74 anchored the innings, and Marsh’s aggressive half-century kept Australia at a high scoring rate. Adam Zampa also helped with the ball as South Africa could not move on in the chase.
Pat Cummins' return was another positive for Australia, with the captain leading the side in the final ODI.
What Is Next?
After the ODI series is over, we now turn our attention to the three-match Test series between South Africa and Australia. The first test is due to start on October 9, 2026 in Durban.
South Africa will have the confidence to win the ODI series, and Australia will try to build on their last-match response when the format changes.
Match Summary
Match: South Africa vs Australia, 3rd ODI
Date: September 30, 2026
Venue: Senwes Park, Potchefstroom
Australia: 322/9 (50 overs)
South Africa: 145/4 (28 overs)
Result: Australia won by 45 runs (DLS method)
Series: South Africa won 2–1
