Following their victory in the first ODI against South Africa, Australia got off to a promising start in the second ODI. The opening partnership contributed significantly, amassing 109 runs before losing their first wicket. Travis Head played a blistering innings, scoring 64 runs, while David Warner played a vital role at the crease.
What grabbed everyone’s attention, however, was not just Head’s impressive performance with the bat but also a light-hearted incident that unfolded during the match, which inadvertently teased the South African crowd.
During the eighth over, bowled by Anrich Nortje, Head faced a full delivery outside off. Attempting a drive, he failed to find a gap, and the ball headed towards David Miller, stationed at extra cover within the 30-yard circle. In the process, Head damaged the bottom of his bat and decided to switch to a new one.
As he began walking back towards the pavilion, still inspecting the damaged bat, the spectators momentarily believed that he had been caught by a fielder within the inner ring. However, Marcus Stoinis, Head’s teammate, emerged from the dugout with a replacement bat, making it clear that Head was merely changing his equipment.
— andre bapat (@AndreBapat82195) September 9, 2023
This turn of events left the home crowd somewhat disappointed, as they had momentarily believed their team had taken a crucial wicket. Social media was abuzz with reactions from Twitterati, humorously highlighting how the Australian opener had inadvertently played a prank on the home crowd.