South Africa beat Australia by six wickets in the final of the one-day international triangular series, also involving Zimbabwe, at the Harare Sports Club on Saturday.
Chasing a target of 218 runs to win, South Africa's Faf du Plessis made good on his form, scoring a solid 96 run knock, and also becoming the holder of the prestigious player of the series. The others who contributed with their bat were Hashim Amla with his 51 runs and AB de Villiers who remained unbeaten on 57 runs by crossing the stipulated target in just 40.5 overs by scoring 221 in loss of four wickets, the Cricinfo reported.
In contrast the Australians were seen struggling infront of the South African bowling attack led by Dale Steyn. It was his bowling masterclass that derailed the Australia innings with his four- wicket- haul.
Barring Aaron Finch, no Australian batsman crossed 50 . It was James Faulkner and Mitchell Starc who wrested back some control for Australia as the duo shared a 71-run stand for the ninth wicket to take Australia past their lowest score of the tournament - 209 for 9 in the match they lost to Zimbabwe. Australia were finally restricted to 217 at the loss of nine wickets in their allotted 50 overs.