Heinrich Klaasen and Jon-Jon Smuts: two new national heroes. Photo: AFP.
There seems to be a switch that flicks on when the Proteas play the Australians in 50-over cricket in South Africa.
For a second series in the row, they claimed a memorable whitewash over the old enemy by virtue of a comfortable win by six wickets in Potchefstroom on Saturday.
The 3-0 scoreline emulates the 5-0 thrashing handed out to the Baggy Greens in 2016.
What will please coach Mark Boucher no end is that this match – as was the case in the previous two battles – produced yet another new hero in Jon-Jon Smuts.
The reliable Warriors skipper delivered an excellent all-round performance, showcasing all the virtues that have made him one of franchise cricket’s most valuable players.
Smuts spearheaded the Proteas’ chase of 255, striking 12 fours in a typically meaty 84 off 98 deliveries, his maiden ODI fifty, and playing a big role in two defining partnerships of 96 and 79 with Kyle Verreynne and Heinrich Klaasen.
Verreynne joined his partner in crafting a first international half-century, hitting three sixes in a run-a-ball 50.
Meanwhile, Titans skipper Klaasen continued his outstanding form in the series, applying the finishing touches to a satisfying win with an unbeaten 68.
The Australian attack lacked punch on a slow pitch, though it was missing two prominent members in Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins.
In contrast, a disciplined home attack did well to restrict the Aussies.
Smuts did a great job with his left-arm orthodox spinners, claiming 2/42, with his franchise teammate Anrich Nortje finishing with 2/35.
The rapid Nortje claimed the key wicket of David Warner early on.
Australia’s batting effort was anchored by Marnus Labuschagne, who made the most of his “homecoming” with a maiden ODI century.
His 108 was a classy effort and one the community of Stilfontein – about 30km from Senwes Park – will be proud of.
For more news your way, download The Citizen’s app for iOS and Android.