Australia vs South Africa 3rd ODI: How will the pitch and weather play at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay?

Australia and South Africa will face off in the third ODI at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay on Sunday at 10 am IST. The hosts rested captain Pat Cummins and pacer Mitchell Starc, giving opportunity to youngsters.

However, the move seems to have backfired, with Australia losing both the matches. The first ODI in Cairns saw the hosts face a 98-run defeat against the Temba Bavuma-led side, whereas, they returned to lose in the second match by 84 runs against Aiden Markram's side. They will now look to avoid a whitewash.

South Africa, high on confidence, will be bolstered by the return of Bavuma, who made a crucial half-century in the first innings. The bowlers have performed exceptionally well in both the matches so far. As a result, the visiting side will aim to return home by affecting a clean sweep against the Mitchell Marsh-led Australia.

Aus vs SA 3rd ODI: Pitch report

The Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay has shown signs of being a batter-friendly wicket, especially in the first innings. Despite a top-order collapse, the South Africans were able to post a decent total of 277 while batting first.

The Australians, however, failed to chase down the target, as the surface became tougher to bat on in the second essay. This indicates that opting to bat first is a wise decision on a surface like this. Pacers are likely to get assistance throughout the innings.

Aus vs SA 3rd ODI: Weather update

MacKay could witness a pleasant day when it comes to weather with summer slowly starting to set in.