Opener David Warner’s (122) century followed by stumper AlexCarey valiant (85 off 69) was not enough to help Australia overhaul the 325-runtarget against South Africa in their last group affair at the World Cup 2019here on Saturday.
The Proteans had the last laugh in the affair as theirbowlers rose to the occasion and their discipline effort restricted thedefending champions and tournament favourites at 310. Kasigo Rabada was thepick of the bowlers with figures of 3/56.
Chasing the target, Australia lost in-form opener AaronFinch early with just five runs on board and things went worse for them as theAussies as they lost Steve Smith, Marcus Stoinis (22) and Glen Maxwell (12).
Warner kept one end intact but lacked support from the otherend before Carey stepped up to show his class. Warner fell in the 40th over butCarey kept Australia’s hope alive however, he too departed in the 46th over asthe defending champions lost the affair by a meagre 10 runs.
Earlier, South Africa rode a super batting effort from theirtop order to post a challenging 325/6 in the last round-robin league match ofthe 2019 ICC World Cup against defending champions Australia here on Saturday.
Skipper Faf du Plessis led the Proteas’ charge with acentury. He was South Africa’s top scorer with 100 runs off 94 balls. Hisinnings was studded with seven boundaries and two sixes.
He posted a 151-run partnership with Rassie van der Dussento set the base for a big total. Rassie posted a steady 95 off 97 balls.
Earlier, South Africa were off to a quick start with openersQuinton de Kock and Aiden Markram adding 79 runs between them in just 11 overs.
Markram scored a well-made 34 before being outfoxed byNathan Lyon. Quinton went on to complete his half-century before Lyon accountedfor him as well.
However, the South African lower order could not rise to theoccasion as the Australians claimed regular wickets late in the innings.