Providence (Guyana): Farhaan Behardien scored his fifth ODI century before South African bowlers produced a comprehensive all-round performance to defeat Australia by 47 runs in the third match of the triangular series at the Providence Stadium in Guyana.
Electing to bat first, South Africa struggled to score runs smoothly on a sluggish surface with five of their top batsmen dismissed in 25 overs.
However, Behardien scored a dogged 62 and in the process collaborated with Aaron Phangiso and Kagiso Rabada to provide stability in their innings as South Africa made 189 for nine in their stipulated 50 overs.
In reply, Australian batsmen failed to adapt themselves to the conditions as they kept losing wickets at regular intervals and were bundled out for 142 in 34.2 overs.
Despite Aaron Finch’s 72, Australia failed to deny South Africa a bonus point.
Rabada was the pick of the bowlers for South Africa with figures of 3-13, while spinners Imran Tahir and Phangiso tightened the grip on the rivals by claiming two wickets each.
Pace bowler Wayne Parnell, who made his return after 11 months out of the national side, removed dangerous David Warner (1) and skipper Steve Smith (8) early in the chase.
The Guyana leg of the Caribbean tri-series ended with three sides securing points and the tournament will now shift to St Kitts, where Australia and South Africa will meet again on Saturday. (ANI)