A devastating spell of spin bowling from Keshav Maharaj guided South Africa to a comprehensive 98-run victory over Australia in the opening one-day international in Cairns. The left-arm spinner claimed his first five-wicket haul in ODI cricket, triggering a dramatic Australian collapse that saw the hosts lose six wickets for just 29 runs.
After being sent in to bat, South Africa posted 285-8 from their 50 overs, with Aiden Markram (82) and Temba Bavuma (65) providing the backbone of the innings. The total appeared competitive but not insurmountable on a surface that offered assistance to the spinners.
Australia’s chase began promisingly with Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne taking the score to 60 without loss. However, the introduction of Maharaj changed the complexion of the match entirely. The spinner ripped through Australia’s middle order, claiming five wickets in five overs – including three bowled and two lbw decisions – to reduce the hosts to 89-6.
Mitchell Marsh provided lone resistance with a fighting 88, but received little support from the lower order as Australia were eventually bowled out for 198 in the 41st over. The defeat extends South Africa’s dominance over Australia in the 50-over format, marking their fourth consecutive ODI victory against their rivals.
Maharaj’s figures of 5-33 from ten overs earned him the player of the match award, with support coming from seamers Lutho Sipamla and Nandre Burger, who claimed two wickets each.
The victory gives South Africa early momentum in the three-match series, with the teams next meeting in Mackay on Friday. The performance also provides valuable insights for both sides ahead of next year’s T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka, particularly regarding their ability to handle quality spin bowling on turning tracks.
