A career-best performance from veteran spinner Keshav Maharaj inspired South Africa to a dominant 98-run victory against Australia in the first ODI in Cairns. The 35-year-old’s maiden five-wicket haul (5-33) left the Australian batting lineup in tatters, securing a 1-0 series lead for the tourists.
Australia’s pursuit of 297 began on a high note, reaching 0-60 with ease. However, the introduction of Maharaj into the attack marked a dramatic shift in the game’s momentum. In a stunning display of spin bowling, he ripped through the hosts’ middle order, triggering a collapse of 6-29 in just 55 balls, from which Australia never recovered.
Earlier, the Proteas had put together a strong batting display to reach 8-296. Aiden Markram (82) and Temba Bavuma (65) laid a solid foundation with impressive half-centuries. A late, aggressive cameo from Wiaan Mulder, who smashed an unbeaten 31, provided the final impetus to push the score towards the 300-mark.
Only Australian captain Mitch Marsh showed any semblance of resistance, compiling a fighting 88. His lone effort was not nearly enough, as the rest of the batting order crumbled under Maharaj’s relentless pressure. The innings concluded at 198, highlighting a significant vulnerability to spin for the home team.
