Australia are back on top of the world in both Tests and ODIs during their trip to South Africa, but the teams are so tightly matched that the one-day honour will return to the hosts if they win the five-match series. The visitors, who lost the two Twenty20s, switched on in the opening contest for a 141-run victory in Durban and they will walk out at Centurion seeking more success.
South Africa were out-played throughout game one and have some serious work to do on their batting to manage a swift turnaround. They lasted only 33.1 overs in making 145 as Nathan Hauritz, the occasionally-employed offspinner, did most of the damage. Australia were relieved at the strong showing from Michael Hussey, who was unbeaten on 83, and will chase a repeat performance from their bowlers.