South Africa roared back into contention in the tri-nation one-day international series with a 47-run victory over Australia in the third match of the tournament at the Guyana National Stadium on Tuesday.

Defending a modest 189 for nine on another pitch that challenged batsmen, the Proteas bowlers were resisted only by opener Aaron Finch's defiant 72 before he was ninth out as the World Cup-holders folded for 142 off 34.2 overs.

By virtue of their margin of victory, South Africa also earned a bonus point and leapt from last to first over Australia, leaving hosts West Indies third.

SCORES IN BRIEF

SOUTH AFRICA: 189 for 9 in 50 overs (Amla 35, Behardien 62; Hazlewood 2-20, Maxwell 2-15)

AUSTRALIA: 142 all out in 34.2 overs (Finch 72; Rabada 3-13, Tahir 2-39, Phangiso 2-26)

Result: SA won by 47 runs.