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Cricket fans were treated to an enthralling contest as South Africa and Australia battled fiercely in the opening 🀅ODI of their 4-match series at the Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein on Thursday. While Australia emerged victorious, it was a moment involving South African pacer Gerald Coetzee that left spectators buzzing.
Coetzee’s moment of brilliance
During Australia’s chase, one particular moment grabbed everyone’s attention. In the 14th over, South African fast bowler Coetzee produced a brilliant bouncer that sent Marcus Stoinis packing. What followed was an electrifying celebration by Coetzee, as he let out a spirited cry of “Come on” while giving an aggressive send-🧔off to the Australian all-roun𝓰der.
Here is the video:
Gerald Coetzee got the wicket of Marcus Stoinis
— 𝑮𝒂𝒖𝒓𝒂𝒗 𝑹𝒂𝒊 (@IacGaurav)
Temba Bavuma: Sole warrior in South Africa’s innings
Earlier in the match, South Africa, after being asked to bat first, posted a total of 222 runs in 49 overs. Despite a stunning century by skipper Temba Bavuma, who notched up an unbeaten 114 runs, the rest of the Proteas’ batting lineup struggled to find their rhythm.
Also READ: Twitter Reactions – Marnus Labuschagne and Ashton Agar star in Australia’s come-from-behind victory against South Africa
Josh Hazlewood delওivered an impressive performance for the Australian side, taking a three-wicket haul while conceding ✃only 41 runs in his allotted 10 overs, which included two maidens.
Marnus Labuschagne leads Australia’s remarkable turnaround
In the face of mounting pressure and a challenging situation, Australia experienced a remarkable turnaround in the match. Initially, they found themselves in a precarious position at 113/7, indicating a potential defeat. The team’s top order had faltered, and the situation appeared dire.
However, against all odds, Marnus Labuschagne and Ashton Agar stepped up to the plate. Through their extraordinary resilience and skill, they formed an exceptional partnership that defied the expectations of both teams and the spectators. Labuschagne (80 not out) and Agar’s (48 not out) joint efforts resulted in an unbeaten partnership of 112 runs, which not only stabilized Australia’s innings but also propelled the visitors to victory.