CENTURION (South Africa), Oct 20: Teenage debutant Pat Cummins had his first ball hit for six but then struck two vital blows as Australia eased to victory in a rain-hit first One-day International against South Africa at SuperSport Park on Wednesday.

Facing an adjusted target of 223 off 29 overs, South Africa’s chances took a huge dive when Cummins dismissed Jacques Kallis and JP Duminy in the space of three balls.

The hosts were bowled out for 129 in 22 overs to give Australia a 93-win Duckworth/Lewis win.

Cummins, at 18 the youngest player to represent Australia in a One-day International, confirmed the promise he showed in two Twenty20 Internationals against the same opponents.

He was hit over extra cover for six by South African captain Hashim Amla but then produced a fast delivery which Kallis edged into his stumps to end a 36-run second wicket stand with Amla.

J.P. Duminy fell to Cummins for the third time in three innings when he edged a catch to second slip two balls later, with Australian captain Michael Clarke taking a good low catch.

Former captain Ricky Ponting opened the batting and was named Man-of-the-Match after he made 63 in an Australian innings of 183 for four in 29 overs.

Ponting and Clarke (44) built a solid foundation before lightning and rain drove the players off the field at 96 for one after 19 overs.—AFP

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