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Why Is Matthew Breetzke Not In South Africa's Playing XI For The 3rd ODI Vs Australia?

Soumyajit Dutta

Matthew Breetzke rested for 3rd ODI [Source: AFP Photos]Matthew Breetzke rested for 3rd ODI [Source: AFP Photos]

In a crucial development, Australia won the toss and opted to bat first in the third ODI of the ongoing series against South Africa. At the toss, Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma confirmed that the visitors made a couple of changes, with himself returning to the side. Addressing the team combination, Bavuma revealed that several players were rested along with Matthew Breetzke.

Why Has Matthew Breetzke Been Excluded From SA's Playing XI?

At the toss, Bavuma said, “Nandre and Lungi are resting. Breetzke is well. I come in for Breetzke, all just precautionary.” While Breetzke is fit, the management seems to have decided to manage his workload carefully. 

While no reason was given for the rest, it is understood that ahead of the upcoming ODI series against England starting September 2, where Breetzke is expected to feature prominently, the management has decided to rest him to reduce his workload as the Proteas already bagged the series against Australia.

Breetzke's Shining ODI Form

Nevertheless, the 26-year-old batter has been in sparkling touch since his debut. Recently, he etched his name in the record books by smashing his fourth consecutive ODI fifty, becoming only the second player in history after Navjot Singh Sidhu to achieve this feat. 

With scores of 150, 83, 57, and another solid 88 in the second ODI against Australia, Breetzke has showcased rare consistency and cemented his place as South Africa’s rising star.

AUS vs SA 3rd ODI Playing XIs

South Africa Playing XI: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis, Wiaan Mulder, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy, Kwena Maphaka

Australia Playing XI: Mitchell Marsh (c), Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis (wk), Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Sean Anthony Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa.