Australia's Miracle Comeback From 48 for 6

# The Miracle Match: Australia's Greatest Escape (January 26, 1998)

On January 26, 1998—Australia Day, no less—cricket fans witnessed one of the most dramatic finishes in One Day International history at the Sydney Cricket Ground. It was the fourth match of the Carlton & United Series, featuring Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand, and what unfolded between Australia and South Africa became instantly legendary.

South Africa batted first and posted a formidable 269 runs for 8 wickets in their 50 overs—a very competitive total on that pitch. The Proteas' innings was anchored by Jacques Kallis's patient 67 and supported by Gary Kirsten's 51, giving South Africa a defendable score.

When Australia began their chase, disaster struck almost immediately. The home side collapsed spectacularly, slumping to 48 for 6 wickets. Yes, you read that right—48 for 6! The mighty Australian batting lineup, which included legends like Mark Taylor, Mark Waugh, and Ricky Ponting, had been completely dismantled by South Africa's pace attack, led by the fiery Allan Donald and the crafty Shaun Pollock. The SCG crowd, which had arrived expecting to celebrate Australia Day with a comfortable victory, sat in stunned silence. The match appeared over before it had barely begun.

Enter Michael Bevan and Steve Waugh—two of Australia's greatest crisis men. What followed was nothing short of miraculous. These two master batsmen constructed one of the greatest partnerships in ODI cricket history, adding an unbelievable 138 runs for the seventh wicket. They didn't just survive; they thrived, punishing any loose deliveries while expertly rotating the strike and running brilliantly between the wickets.

Steve Waugh played with characteristic grit and determination, while Bevan—known as "The Finisher"—displayed his genius at pacing a chase. The partnership transformed the atmosphere from funeral to festival. When Waugh finally departed for 67, Australia still needed 84 runs from 102 balls with just three wickets remaining.

Bevan found another ally in Paul Reiffel, and together they continued the incredible fightback. The tension was palpable as Australia inched closer to their target. Bevan remained unbeaten on 101—a masterclass innings of composure under pressure. Australia eventually won with just two balls to spare and two wickets in hand, scoring 271 for 8.

This match became folklore for several reasons: it occurred on Australia's national day, featured one of the greatest collapses and recoveries in cricket history, and showcased the never-say-die Australian spirit that defined their cricket through the 1990s and 2000s. Michael Bevan's innings is still studied by cricket coaches teaching young players about match awareness and finishing skills.

The victory was more than just two competition points; it was a statement that Australia, even from the most hopeless positions, could find a way to win. For South Africa, it was a crushing defeat that added to their growing reputation for faltering in crucial moments—a psychological burden that would haunt them in future tournaments.

This January 26th classic remains one of cricket's greatest advertisements for never giving up, no matter how dire the circumstances appear.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI