In a landmark performance on Sunday, August 24, Australia’s marauding opener Travis Head and captain Mitchell Marsh rewrote the record books by posting the first-ever 250-run opening partnership for the Aussies against South Africa in One Day Internationals. Their mammoth stand eclipsed the previous best of 170 between Matthew Hayden and Adam Gilchrist in Durban back in 2002.
Electing to bat after winning the toss, Australia raced to 86 without loss by the end of the powerplay, powered by Head’s blistering strokeplay and Marsh’s measured aggression. Head tore into South Africa’s new-ball bowlers, reaching his fifty in just 32 balls and ultimately finishing on a career-best 142 off 103 deliveries, featuring 17 fours and five sixes. Marsh complemented him superbly, bringing up his century from 106 balls with two towering sixes, before both were dismissed in quick succession.
At 180 for 2 in the 34th over, the duo’s ruthless partnership ensured Australia were firmly in control. Head’s seventh ODI century came when he nudged Senuran Muthusamy for a single, and Marsh followed soon after, skying one off Muthusamy only to be expertly caught by wicketkeeper Ryan Rickelton.
Their 250-run stand not only marked Australia’s highest opening total against South Africa but also represented the first 100-plus opening partnership since the 2023 World Cup. This dominant start laid the foundation for a commanding total, as Australia now look to seal a series-winning victory on the back of their record-breaking opening duo.
