Harare, Zimbabwe: Australia posted its second straight score of 300-plus in the triangular one-day series as Aaron Finch's century took it to a formidable 327-7 against South Africa on Wednesday.
Finch's 102 from 116 balls set up another strong batting performance for the top-ranked Australians after they made a ground-record 350-6 in a big win over host Zimbabwe in the tournament opener.
Finch was backed up by half-centuries from opening partner Phil Hughes (51) and captain George Bailey (66). He shared partnerships of 92 with Hughes and 114 with Bailey to put Australia in good position for a second win.
South Africa recalled fast bowlers Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel after they were rested for a recent bilateral series against Zimbabwe, but legspinner Imran Tahir had the best figures with 2-45. Morkel took 2-63 and Steyn was subdued for his 1-54.
Finch made his fourth career ODI century and stroked nine fours and a six. Three of Australia's top four made scores after the Aussies were put in to bat.
Hughes marked his recall to the side with a half-century before he fell to Tahir when he mistimed one straight to captain AB de Villiers at cover.
Mitchell Marsh fell quickly for seven but Bailey, who is standing in as skipper for the injured Michael Clarke, regained the momentum with a powerful half-century alongside Finch. His rapid 66 came off only 54 balls with three fours and three sixes.
Mitchell Johnson clubbed two sixes in a 20-run final over off Wayne Parnell to ensure Australia finished as strongly as it started.
Australia made one change after the 198-run win over Zimbabwe to open the triangular series on Monday, with Hughes selected in place of spin bowler Nathan Lyon.
