Australia made the perfect start to the second ODI against South Africa after opting to bowl first, with Josh Hazlewood striking with the very first delivery of the match. The visitors needed an early breakthrough after South Africa won the opening game of the three-match series, and Hazlewood delivered immediately. However, the dismissal was made even more spectacular by a sensational one-handed catch from Cooper Connolly at cover-point.
Cooper Connolly takes a brilliant catch to get rid of Aiden Markram
Australia won the toss and elected to field first at the start of the second ODI, knowing that an early wicket could put pressure on the South African top order. Hazlewood needed just one delivery to make an impact as he removed Aiden Markram for a golden duck.
The Australian quick bowled a short delivery outside off stump, inviting Markram to play a shot. The South African batter went after it and slapped the ball firmly towards the cover-point region.
It appeared to be a well-struck shot, but Connolly had other ideas. Stationed at cover-point, the Australian fielder reacted instantly and threw himself towards the ball. He stretched out one hand and managed to hold on to a stunning catch, leaving Markram walking back to the pavilion without scoring.
It was a dream beginning for Australia, with Hazlewood claiming the wicket and Connolly producing a moment of brilliance in the field.
Here’s the video:
What a grab by Cooper Connolly 👏
Australia strike on the very first ball!
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Australia target series-levelling victory
Australia entered the second ODI under pressure after South Africa won the opening match of the three-game series. The Proteas now have an opportunity to wrap up the series with another victory, making this contest particularly important for the visitors.
For Australia, the equation is straightforward. They need a comeback victory in the second ODI to draw level and take the series into a decisive third match.
The early dismissal of Markram gives Australia the ideal platform from which to build, but South Africa will be looking to recover quickly and put together a competitive total.
Also WATCH: Marco Jansen pulls off a blinder to dismiss Matt Renshaw in SA vs AUS 1st ODI
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