Bailey lauds Marsh blitz

Batsman Mitchell Marsh stood at the fore of captain George Bailey's appreciation, as Australia clinched a solid 62-run win over South Africa in Tuesday's important tri-series ODI at the Harare Sports Club.

Batsman Mitchell Marsh stood at the fore of captain George Bailey's appreciation, as Australia clinched a solid 62-run win over South Africa in Tuesday's important tri-series ODI at the Harare Sports Club.

Marsh struck a quickfire 86 not out off just 51 deliveries, five fours and all of seven sixes included, as the Aussies romped to a formidable total of 282 for seven at the Harare Sports Club.

The Proteas later slipped to an insufficient 220 all out in 44 overs, despite a fine century from the in-form Faf du Plessis, who cherished a three-figure vigil against the same opposition earlier in the tournament too.

"I am very happy. Luckily, some great hitting form Marsh helped us put up a pretty competitive score. We were probably near the par total. We lost Phil Hughes and myself at key times and Marsh got us to a big total," said Bailey.

"Early wickets are important on these wickets, and Glenn Maxwell got us the first one. Faf's in unbelievable form and I was impressed with our energy and our players did the right thing at the right times. We got to get better with adjusting to conditions and we are looking forward to the final."

The talented Marsh was named Man of the Match, after clouting fast bowler Dale Steyn for three consecutive sixes. He also successfully contributed with the ball, removing opener Hashim Amla and the dangerous JP Duminy at key junctures.

"I am very happy and hopefully I can keep things going like this. On this wicket you need to put in some time to bat big at the end," he concluded.

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