South Africa vs Australia: Markram Wins Toss, Proteas Bat First in Second ODI
The spotlight shifted to Queensland on Friday as South Africa’s stand-in skipper Aiden Markram called correctly at the toss and chose to bat first against Australia in the second one-day international.
The Proteas are chasing a series win on foreign soil after a dominant opening victory in Cairns.
South Africa win the toss and bat in the 2nd ODI
https://t.co/fW3BPVBskE pic.twitter.com/fwPvj2JDNV
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) August 22, 2025
Regular captain Temba Bavuma, who led the side in the first ODI, has been rested as part of workload management.
Cricket South Africa reassured fans: “Although he experienced no discomfort during the first ODI, the Proteas medical team recommended he be rested for the second match.”
Bavuma, who picked up a hamstring issue during June’s World Test Championship final triumph at Lord’s, is expected to return for Sunday’s decider.
Changes in Both Camps
South Africa made two enforced switches. Toni de Zorzi has stepped up to open the batting, while Senuran Muthusamy fills the all-rounder’s slot, offering left-arm spin after Prenelan Subrayen was sidelined. Subrayen, on his debut in Cairns, was reported for a suspect bowling action.
Australia, still reeling from a crushing 98-run defeat in the series opener, have made a single tweak. Pacer Ben Dwarshius makes way for the young, quick Xavier Bartlett.
The South Africa vs Australia clash at Mackay promises fireworks. Markram, leading from the front, will look to build pressure early with the bat. Australia, meanwhile, are desperate to strike back and keep the series alive.
This contest pits two proud cricketing nations in a classic tug-of-war — one side chasing a statement series win away from home, the other fighting to restore pride.
Playing XIs
South Africa: Ryan Rickelton, Aiden Markram (captain), Tony de Zorzi, Matthew Breetzke, Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy, Nandre Burger, Lungi Ngidi.
Australia: Mitchell Marsh (captain), Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, Aaron Hardie, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood.
