Aussies take 2-0 lead against Proteas in World Cup warmup

Marnus Labuschagne has further pressed his case for inclusion in Australia’s World Cup team, with another match-winning performance against South Africa in the second of five one-day clashes on Saturday.

Labuschagne crunched 124 off 99 balls to lead the Aussies to a commanding 8-392, with David Warner also impressive, winding back the clock to record 106 off just 93 balls.

Just a month shy of the 50-over World Cup, Warner’s explosive century silenced doubters, reaffirming his position at the top of the order, which has come under threat given he is 36 years old.

The dynamic opener, recovering from a disappointing duck in the opening match, notched his 20th ODI century, becoming only the second Australian after cricket legend Ricky Ponting to achieve this feat.

Meanwhile, Travis Head dazzled early on with a brisk 64 off 36, hammering Nortje for a trio of sixes, setting the stage for Australia’s blistering start.

The Aussie innings did face a minor hiccup when Shamsi took two quick wickets. Yet, Labuschagne, carrying forward his form from the first match, seemed undeterred. The 29-year-old, speaking about his recent form, said, “(I’ve made) a few slight technical changes… and just more intent. It’s nice that it’s started so well but we’ve just got to keep winning games.”

Warner’s inning, although curtailed by cramps, stood out, especially when Phehlukwayo claimed his wicket. Josh Inglis continued to apply pressure, marking his maiden international half-century.

Labuschagne’s case for a World Cup call-up is gathering momentum, his inning glittered with 19 boundaries and a mammoth six. However, despite the Aussie dominance, a late South African bowling resurgence restricted them to just under 400.

South Africa’s chase began with promise, but their aspirations were soon dashed. De Kock and Bavuma initiated a promising stand, but the Aussie bowlers, spearheaded by Zampa’s impressive 4-48, thwarted the Proteas’ hopes.

With the victory, Australia continues its dominant run, winning 10 of their last 11 ODIs, revving up for the 50-over World Cup. The team also achieved consecutive men’s ODI wins against South Africa for the first time since 2014.

The stage now moves to Potchefstroom for the third ODI, where Australia will attempt a series sealing win, with two matches in-hand.

The ODI World Cup will be played in India next month, which will be significantly different conditions to what the Aussies are facing in South Africa. The Australians are priced at $5 to win the World Cup with cricket betting sites, behind England and India.

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