Keshav Maharaj delivered a spin-bowling masterclass in Cairns on Tuesday, claiming a career-best 5/33 to help South Africa hammer Australia by 98 runs in the opening ODI of the three-match series. The 35-year-old left-arm spinner ripped through the Aussie middle order, taking five wickets in just 26 balls as the hosts crumbled in their chase of 297.
It’s a wonderful opportunity to get my first five-for. The wicket was a little sticky, and I just tried to utilize that.
Markram, Bavuma & Breetzke Lay the Foundation
Earlier, South Africa posted a strong 296/8 after being put in to bat by Australia captain Mitchell Marsh. The Proteas’ top order fired in unison: Aiden Markram scored a fluent 82 off 82 balls (9x4), Temba Bavuma contributed a steady 65 off 74 (5x4), and Matthew Breetzke chipped in with a confident 57 off 52 (7x4, 1x6).
The innings was further bolstered by cameos from Ryan Rickelton (33) and Wiaan Mulder (31 not out), helping South Africa reach a total that proved well beyond Australia’s reach.
Travis Head Shines Briefly with Bat and Ball
Australia’s brightest spark came in the form of Travis Head, who impressed with 4-57 and a fiery 27 at the top of the order, including five boundaries in a single Nandre Burger over. He also effected a sharp run-out to cap a strong all-round effort.
Collapse After Promising Start
Chasing 297, Australia looked in command at 60/0 in 7 overs before South Africa struck with a smart bowling change. Debutant spinner Prenelan Subrayen, introduced early by Bavuma, dismissed Head to break the opening stand — and the floodgates opened.
The Aussies lost six wickets for just 29 runs, crashing to 89/6 inside 17 overs. Key middle-order players — Labuschagne (1), Green (5), Inglis (5), Carey (0)* and Hardie (4) — fell cheaply as Maharaj weaved his web.
Marsh’s Lone Stand in Vain
Skipper Mitchell Marsh fought valiantly with a well-made 88 off 91 balls, and shared a 71-run stand with Ben Dwarshuis (33) for the seventh wicket. But the damage was irreparable as Australia folded for 198 in 40.5 overs.
Keshav is an outstanding bowler. At times, you just have to take your hat off — he won them the game.
Captain's Verdict: “A Good All-Round Performance”
South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma praised his team’s adaptability and execution:
“The wicket was a bit two-paced, but we tried to adapt. We felt it would get variable, maybe stay low — and Kesh showed his class. The others backed him well.”
Brief Scores: South Africa 296/8 in 50 overs (Aiden Markram 82, Temba Bavuma 65, Matthew Breetzke 57; Travis Head 4-57, Ben Dwarshuis 2-53) Australia 198 all out in 40.5 overs (Mitchell Marsh 88, Ben Dwarshuis 33; Keshav Maharaj 5-33, Lungi Ngidi 2-28, Nandre Burger 2-54) Result: South Africa won by 98 runs. Series: South Africa lead 1–0.
