South Africa got their three-match ODI series against Australia off to a perfect start with a commanding 98-run victory at Cazaly’s Stadium in Cairns on Tuesday. The star of the show was left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, who produced a stunning five-wicket haul to dismantle the Australian batting lineup.
South Africa Set 296/8 After Batting First
Put into bat, South Africa posted 296/8 in their 50 overs, a competitive total on a slightly two-paced wicket. Captain Temba Bavuma, vice-captain Aiden Markram, and opener Matthew Breetzke all struck crucial half-centuries to anchor the innings. Their partnerships helped build momentum despite regular breakthroughs from the Australian bowlers.
Australia’s best bowler on the day was part-time spinner Travis Head, who surprised the Proteas with his tidy control and variations. Head claimed 4/52, applying pressure in the middle overs and ensuring South Africa could not cross the 300-run mark easily.
Keshav Maharaj’s Magical Spell
In reply, Australia struggled to gain any rhythm against a disciplined South African attack. While the new-ball pair kept things tight, it was Keshav Maharaj who turned the match decisively in the visitors’ favor. The left-arm spinner exploited the conditions beautifully, flighting the ball and extracting sharp turn.
Maharaj ended with exceptional figures of 5 wickets, ripping through Australia’s middle and lower order. His spell not only derailed Australia’s chase but also showcased why he remains one of the most reliable match-winners in South African cricket.
Keshav Maharaj let Australia Folded 98 Runs Short
Chasing 297, Australia were bundled out for 198, falling well short of the target. Without the experienced duo of Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell, who both retired following the 2025 Champions Trophy semi-final defeat to India, Australia’s batting looked unsettled.
While Travis Head contributed with the ball earlier, he could not replicate the same impact with the bat. The rest of the lineup faltered against spin and disciplined pace bowling.
Australia Facing Selection Questions
The Australian team management now faces pressing selection dilemmas. With stalwarts like Smith and Maxwell no longer available, the middle order appears vulnerable. All eyes are on Cameron Green, who has returned to the squad and is being considered either as a No.3 option or as a stabilizer in the lower-middle order.
There is also the question of Josh Hazlewood’s workload. The pacer featured in all three T20 internationals prior to this ODI series, and it remains uncertain if the management will risk playing him across formats without rotation.
South Africa Take 1-0 Lead
With this win, South Africa took a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series and will look to capitalize on their early advantage. The victory highlighted the team’s balance, with contributions from both bat and ball.
Key Takeaways
- South Africa: Breetzke, Bavuma, and Markram hit half-centuries; Maharaj bagged 5 wickets.
- Australia: Travis Head starred with 4 wickets but batting collapsed.
- Context: First ODI win gives South Africa momentum ahead of the second match.
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South Africa’s dominance in Cairns underlines their growing confidence in ODI cricket, while Australia will need to regroup quickly to keep the series alive.