WA Men Star As Records Tumble In Mackay

The third One-Day International between Australia and South Africa at Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay saw some of Western Australia’s stars shine brightly.

After slipping to defeat in the first two games of the series, the Australian side was out to avoid a series whitewash in the final game.

After winning the toss and electing to bat for the first time in his captaincy, Mitch Marsh set the tone for his side.

Marsh and opening partner Travis Head put together a stunning partnership of 250, the fifth-highest opening stand for Australia in an ODI.

The 33-year-old notched his first century as Australian Captain soon after Head was dismissed.

Fellow all-rounder Cameron Green then made the most of his promotion to no.3 in the line-up, belting 118 from just 55 deliveries.

It took Green just 47 balls to reach his maiden ODI century, the second-fastest by an Australian in the format.

Only Glenn Maxwell’s 40-ball century against Netherlands in the 2023 World Cup bettered Green’s effort.

Green, who batted at no.3 at Test level in the World Test Championship and Sir Frank Worrell Trophy earlier this year, said he enjoyed the opportunity to come in off the back of the opening partnership.

“We discussed it at the 30 over mark, we were like if he gets to the 35th we might make a few changes,” Green told reporters after the match.

“It becomes a bit of a T20 for the rest of us.

“I got told I was in next one ball before Heady got out.

“When you switch positions, your role does change.

“Instead of nudging it around and getting Bison (Marsh) on strike, I think it was get out there and get on with it straight away.”

The Australian total of 2-431 was the nation’s second highest in the 50 over format.

While Green and Marsh starred with the bat, it was another one of their state teammates who stole the show with the ball.

Cooper Connolly, who had yet to feature for the hosts through the South African tour of the Top End, recorded the best bowling figures by an Australian spinner in ODI cricket with 5-22 off six overs.

Connolly’s deeds saw him eclipse those of former WA spinner Brad Hogg, who previously had the best figures of 5-33 against the West Indies in 2005.

Green spoke glowingly of Connolly’s performance and capitalising on another opportunity in Australian colours.

“It’s been a long few months for Coop,” Green said.

“He’s been on the road for a while and not been playing at times.

“I think it’s his first five-for ever and he’s never got one in junior cricket.

“It’s a bit of a relief for him to get a few wickets and I think he bowled beautifully.”

The 276-run victory was Australia's second biggest win in ODI Cricket.

Wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis also had an impact on the series with a stylish 87 in the second match, which saw South Africa record a 98-run victory.

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