Lungi Ngidi produced a brilliant five-wicket haul as South Africa beat Australia by 84 runs in the second match of the three-match series, sealing an unassailable 2-0 lead.
Ngidi struck early in the fourth over of the Australian innings, dismissing Marnus Labuschagne, caught by Ryan Rickelton. When a small partnership was building between Aaron Hardie and Josh Inglis, Ngidi broke through again, taking a sharp return catch to remove Hardie.
In his next over, he delivered a double blow, dismissing Inglis and Xavier Bartlett in quick succession. Finally, he wrapped up the Australian innings by removing Adam Zampa, caught at mid-on by substitute fielder Corbin Bosch. Ngidi finished with figures of 5/42 and was named Player of the Match.
His spell proved decisive as Australia were bundled out for 193 in 37.4 overs while chasing a target of 278.
Earlier, South Africa won the toss and opted to bat first. Matthew Breetzke’s fine 88 and Tristan Stubbs’ composed 74 guided them to 277. Adam Zampa was the pick of the bowlers for Australia, finishing with three wickets.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Ngidi expressed his delight with the performance:
“It’s been a long tour. Real test of character. Happy to put in a performance like that tonight. Definitely had to step up (in absence of Rabada). Obviously we know he’s the spearhead of our attack. When he went down, I knew I had big shoes to fill. Like I said it’s been a test of character. Guys in the powerplay have put us under pressure every single over.”
He added: “Nice to find some assistance tonight and make that count. We gave them a chance and that’s what international cricketers do, if you give them a chance they make it count. That’s what they were doing. Was a little bit nervous. But I felt there was assistance in the wicket. Cross-seam seemed to be two different paces off the surface. Just trying to nail that down and run in as hard as I can and break the game open.”
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