Concussion substitute Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green head knock, Ashton Agar partnership, video, cricket news 2023

Concussion substitute Marnus Labuschagne saved Australia in the first ODI against South Africa, leading the visitors to an unlikely three-wicket win after an early collapse in Bloemfontein.

The Queenslander, who finished the game on 80 but not out, formed an unbeaten century partnership with Ashton Agar for the eighth wicket, helping Australia chase down the 223-run target with 58 balls remaining.

Labuschagne had replaced all-rounder Cameron Green in the starting XI after the West Australian was hit on the helmet in the sixth over of the run chase against Protea pacer Kagiso Rabada.

MATCH CENTER: South Africa vs Australia first ODI scorecard

Earlier, South Africa were bowled out for 222 despite an unbeaten 114 from captain Temba Bavuma, his second ODI century, with Australian quick Josh Hazlewood taking three wickets in a top-class bowling display.

In response, Australia slumped to 7-113 in the 17th over before the unlikely duo of Labuschagne and Agar, who finished with a career-best 48, led Australia to its first ODI win in South Africa since 2011.

“My mother insisted that I play last night,” Labuschagne said after the win.

“I said, ‘Mom, I’m not on the team’ … I guess I just have some weird things that happen with a concussion.”

Watch Australia’s South Africa tour on Kayo Sports. Every game live and on demand. Join Kayo now and start streaming right away >

There’s more to come…