AUS vs SA: Matthew Breetzke scores 88 in 2nd ODI, achieves a rare feat in ODI Cricket

Matthew Breetzke has scored four 50+ scores in his first four ODI games.

South Africa batter Matthew Breetzke achieved a rare record as he slammed a half-century in the ongoing second ODI against Australia on Friday, August 22. The game is currently underway at The Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay. With his fifty in the first innings, Breetzke became first ever cricketer to hammer four 50+ scores in first four ODI career matches.

Notably, the 26-year-old made his ODI debut in February this year in a clash against New Zealand. He slammed a 150-run knock in his debut game. Later, he scored an 83-run knock in his second match against Pakistan. In the opening ODI against Australia in the ongoing series, he scored 57 runs.

With his fifty in the game, Breetzke has broke former India batter Najvot Singh Sidhu’s record, who had hit four 50+ scores in first five career ODIs. Notably, Sidhu scored four consecutive 50+ scores in his first four innings in ODI cricket. However, he did not bat in his career’s third game and scored 50+ scores in his career’s first two and then the fourth and fifth games.

Aiden Markram is captaining South Africa in 2nd ODI against Australia

Talking about the game, Aiden Markram is leading the visitors in the second ODI in the absence of regular captain Temba Bavuma, who has been rested to manage his hamstring. After winning the toss and opting to bat first in the game, the visitors piled 277/10 with half-centuries from Matthew Breetzke (88) and Tristan Stubbs (74).

The Proteas, who lead the series 1-0, had defeated Australia in the first ODI by 98 runs. With half-centuries by Aiden Markram, Temba Bavuma, and Breetzke, the visitors piled up 296/8 in the first ODI. Later, they bowled out Australia for just 198 runs, winning the encounter by a huge margin. Keshav Maharaj picked a five-wicket haul for the visitors.

Meanwhile, with four half-centuries and 378 runs in his first four ODI games, Breetzke has made a wonderful start to his ODI career. He has also played two tests and 10 T20Is so far.

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