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Head And Marsh Surpass Gilchrist, Hayden With Mammoth Opening Stand In AUS vs SA 3rd ODI

Debashis Sarangi

Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh attained a massive feat [Source: AFP]Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh attained a massive feat [Source: AFP]

In a remarkable achievement, Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head broke the record of the legendary opening pair of Adam Gilchrist and Matthew Hayden, setting the highest-ever opening stand for Australia against South Africa in ODIs. The dynamic batting pair attained the landmark during the ongoing third ODI between the two sides at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay. 

Head, Marsh Shatter Huge Record With Massive Opening Stand

After winning the toss and opting to bat first, Australia had a dream start to their innings, with Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh taking advantage of the batting-friendly conditions. The swashbuckling duo hammered the Proteas bowlers to all parts of the ground, setting the foundation for a massive score with a scintillating opening partnership. 

Both Head and Marsh went on to bring up their respective centuries, recording the highest opening stand for Australia against South Africa in ODIs. Interestingly, this is the fourth-highest partnership by an Australian opening duo in ODI history, with Head and David Warner claiming the top spot, having registered a massive 284-run stand against Pakistan back in 2017. 

Highest Opening Stands by Australian batting pairs vs South Africa in ODIs

  • Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh - 250, today
  • Adam Gilchrist, Matthew Hayden - 170
  • Michael Clarke, Brad Haddin - 129
  • Aaron Finch, David Warner - 118
  • Shaun Marsh, David Warner - 114

As mentioned above, Head and Marsh currently claim the first position following their 250-run stand in the third ODI of the ongoing series. The list comprises legendary players like Gilchrist, Hayden, Clarke, Haddin, Finch and Warner, who have dominated the South African attack as top-order batters. 

Regarding the final ODI, Australia were racing to a huge total, riding on Head and Marsh's glorious centuries. As of writing, the hosts were 350 for two, with Cameron Green and Alex Carey batting on 63* and 29*, respectively.