Australia vs South Africa
Third Test, Adelaide Oval, 24 November
South Africa’s devastating Hobart victory was set up on day one by rolling Australia for 85. Starc and Hazlewood offered some resistance, but a brilliant century from de Kock and 74 from Bavuma put South Africa in a commanding position. Australia’s second innings was not much better. Khawaja’s dismissal for 64 sparked another stunning collapse as Australia lost 8 for 32, and handed South Africa their third straight series win in Australia.
The fallout started in the boardroom with Rod Marsh’s resignation. It then turned to the playing field with half the team changing. Debutants dominated the inclusions and the main focus revolved around Australia’s batting.
Warner and Smith will be relied on more than ever and seem most likely. Khawaja has been Australia’s next best and is coming off a Sheffield Shield hundred. The rest of the batting line-up is uncapped, but they come with form. Handscomb and Renshaw both made first-class centuries. The final factor affecting Australia’s batting is the indifference batsman have to the pink ball. 224 was the highest team total from four innings in the corresponding day/night test last season.
South Africa’s bowlers have shared the spoils this series and their fielding has been first rate. Interestingly, in nine innings Cook, Amla and du Plessis have not scored 50 between them. Starc and Hazlewood have eight of their nine dismissals. If they see them off they could pounce.
Stadium Record
Australia has won 4 of their last 5 tests at the Adelaide Oval. The other result was a draw, which was against South Africa in 2012. That drawn match was the only test South Africa has played at the Adelaide Oval since 2001.
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Australia 2.75
Draw 5
South Africa 2
Blue Bet Words: Rhys Thurston
