South Africa beat Australia ahead of World Cup

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (AP):

South Africa secured their third straight victory over Australia yesterday to win the ODI series 3-2 and enjoy an edge over their rivals ahead of the Cricket World Cup next month.

Asked to bat, South Africa scored 315 runs for nine wickets and dismissed Australia for 193 in 34.1 overs, with all-rounder Marco Jansen taking five wickets for 39 runs, to win by 122 runs.

Opener Quinton de Kock made 27 in his last ODI at home. He's retiring from the format after the World Cup. Aiden Markram top-scored for South Africa with 93 runs off 87 balls, and David Miller hit a near run-a-ball 63.

The hosts' competitive total got a big boost by rapid knocks from No. 7 Jensen, who made 47 off 23, and No. 8 Andile Phehlukwayo, who averaged two runs a ball in his unbeaten 38.

Despite being on the losing side, Australia spinner Adam Zampa, with three for 71, would have enjoyed this game more than the fourth ODI when he returned record-equalling figures of 0-113. South Africa won that match by 164 runs to level the series at 2-2, with Heinrich Klaasen smashing 174 in 83 balls. Yesterday, Klaasen was bowled by Zampa for just six.

Australia captain Mitch Marsh hit 71, with six fours and six sixes, and Marnus Labuschagne struck a slower 44 in reply, but the innings was undone by left-armer Jansen, who claimed the top five batters for his first ODI five-for wicket haul.

Australia had threatened to sweep the ODI series -- just as they had done for the three-match T20 contest -- after wins in the opener and second ODI, but South Africa began their revival with a 111-run win in the third ODI.

South Africa will open their World Cup campaign against Sri Lanka on October 7. Australia face host India the following day.