In April 2000, the Australian national cricket team toured South Africa for a series of three One Day Internationals (ODIs). The series showcased some thrilling cricket moments, culminating in South Africa's triumphant comeback to secure the Challenge Series trophy. Here’s a summary of each match and the key highlights.
1st ODI - Kingsmead Cricket Ground, Durban
Date: 12 April 2000 (D/N)
Australia: 240/9 (50 overs)
Top Scorer: DR Martyn 74 (91 balls)
Best Bowler: M Ntini 4/56 (10 overs)
South Africa: 241/4 (48 overs)
Top Scorer: G Kirsten 97 (126 balls)
Best Bowler: GD McGrath 2/21 (9 overs)
Result: South Africa won by 6 wickets
Player of the Match: G Kirsten (SA)
Toss: South Africa won and elected to field
2nd ODI - Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town
Date: 14 April 2000 (D/N)
South Africa: 144/9 (50 overs)
Top Scorers: G Kirsten 34 (66 balls), L Klusener 34* (54 balls)
Best Bowler: B Lee 3/32 (10 overs)
Australia: 145/5 (24.3 overs)
Top Scorer: DR Martyn 50 (32 balls)
Best Bowler: JH Kallis 3/40 (6 overs)
Result: Australia won by 5 wickets
Player of the Match: DR Martyn (AUS)
Toss: Australia won and elected to field
3rd ODI - New Wanderers, Johannesburg
Date: 16 April 2000
Australia: 205 (49.5 overs)
Top Scorer: SR Waugh 51 (86 balls)
Best Bowler: SM Pollock 4/37 (9.5 overs)
South Africa: 209/6 (47.5 overs)
Top Scorer: MV Boucher 55* (89 balls)
Best Bowler: B Lee 3/32 (10 overs)
Result: South Africa won by 4 wickets
Player of the Match: L Klusener (SA)
Toss: South Africa won and elected to field
Series Highlights
Gary Kirsten: The South African opener played a crucial role in the first ODI with a commanding 97, setting the stage for a successful chase.
Lance Klusener: Known for his powerful lower-order batting, Klusener's performance was pivotal in South Africa’s victories, particularly in the decisive final match.
Brett Lee: The Australian fast bowler showcased his ability to trouble the batsmen with consistent performances throughout the series.
Mark Boucher: His match-winning knock in the final ODI sealed the series for South Africa, highlighting his importance as a finisher.
Conclusion
The 2000 ODI series between Australia and South Africa was a rollercoaster of emotions, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of cricket. South Africa's resilience, highlighted by standout performances from key players, enabled them to come from behind and win the series 2-1, capturing the Challenge Series trophy.
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