Sydney: A superb chase from South Africa. They got off to a brisk start, thanks mainly to Gibbs who was in great from today. That start never allowed the asking rate to soar when South Africa lost three quick wickets. Boucher and McKenzie found the going tough but Morkel dashed all hopes of an Australian victory with some big hitting in the batting powerplay. South Africa now lead 2-1 in the series.

The Proteas first bowled out the hosts for 269 in 49.2 overs before going on to overwhelm the target with 21 balls to spare in a keenly contested match under floodlights.

Warner top-scored for Australia with a 60-ball 69, adding 114 runs in 18-odd overs with fellow opener Shaun Marsh (43).

Both the teams now move to Adelaide for the fourth ODI on Monday.

Neil McKenzie (27) and Boucher then arrested the slide and Albie Morkel played a crucial cameo as South Africa romped home.

Earlier, on a good batting track at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Ricky Ponting didn't hesitate to bat first after winning the toss and he soon had reasons to feel vindicated.

Warner and Marsh gave Australia a blazing start and the South African bowlers had no clue how to tame Warner.

Brief Score: South Africa 270/7 (Gibbs 64, Kallis 60, Morkel 40) beat Australia 269 (Warner 69, Botha 3-32) by three wickets
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