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South Africa's Marizanne Kapp says Australia's domination of women's cricket is under threat after the Proteas defeated the world champions in Wednesday's ODI.
The all-rounder pitched in with 75 runs and — as Australia chased a revised target of 234 — set a batting collapse of 8-71 in motion with figures of 3-12.
Australia was all out for 149, despite a 77-run partnership between all-rounders Ash Gardner and Kim Garth that helped the hosts save face.
The result marked the second win of the multi-format tour for South Africa, who had never previously beaten Australia in any form of the game.
The Proteas defeated Australia by six wickets in the second of three T20I matches last month.
Kapp said other international teams were improving, while it was clear Australia missed former captain Meg Lanning, who retired late last year.
"There's definitely a change," she said.
"Losing someone like Lanning, you're never going to be able to replace her, not with captaincy and her batting as well.
"I remember too many games where we had Australia in trouble and she came out to bat and saved them.
"I think everyone is catching up a bit around the world, even the associate teams are picking up against the lower-ranked teams so it's good for the women's game.
"It's a lot more challenging and hopefully this can continue."
Since going on a 26-match ODI winning streak between March 2018 and September 2021, Australia has lost to India, England (twice) and now South Africa.
The defeats have coincided with the rise of women's franchise leagues outside of Australia, with The Hundred and Women's Premier League debuting in 2021 and 2023, respectively.
The third match of the ODI series between Australia and South Africa will be played at North Sydney Oval on Saturday.
AAP