A five-star performance from Keshav Maharaj bowled South Africa to an emphatic 98-run victory over Australia in the first ODI. The spinner’s maiden five-wicket haul was the highlight of a dominant display by the tourists in Cairns.
The match was turned on its head by Maharaj’s incredible spell. With Australia chasing 297 and looking comfortable at 0-60, he was brought into the attack and immediately caused chaos. His figures of 5-33 sparked a collapse that saw Australia lose six wickets in quick succession.
Earlier, the Proteas had set a formidable target of 8-296. This was thanks to excellent half-centuries from Aiden Markram (82) and Temba Bavuma (65), who both showed their class against the Australian bowling attack.
Mitch Marsh was the only Australian to offer any significant resistance, scoring a fighting 88. However, his efforts were in vain as the rest of the batting lineup capitulated, and the team was bowled out for 198.