A career-first five-wicket haul from Keshav Maharaj has inspired South Africa to a memorable 98-run victory over Australia in the series-opening ODI. The 35-year-old spinner was virtually unplayable at Cazaly’s Stadium, finishing with 5-33 to trigger a stunning Australian collapse and seal a dominant win for the visitors.
The match appeared evenly poised as Australia chased 297, reaching 0-60 without loss. However, the game changed in an instant. Debutant Prenelan Subrayen provided the initial breakthrough before Maharaj embarked on a remarkable spell, bowling his 10 overs unchanged to rip the heart out of the Australian batting lineup, which lost 6 wickets in the space of just 55 balls.
South Africa’s batting performance was clinical. Aiden Markram top-scored with a classy 82, while captain Temba Bavuma anchored the middle of the innings with a patient 65. Even a surprising four-wicket haul from Australia’s Travis Head (4-57) couldn’t derail the Proteas, who finished strongly on 8-296 thanks to a late cameo from Wiaan Mulder.
For the hosts, captain Mitch Marsh was a lone warrior, scoring a valiant 88. But his efforts were futile as his teammates capitulated around him. The Australian innings folded for 198, leaving them with much to consider before the second match on Friday. The victory was a major statement from a South African side missing star bowler Kagiso Rabada.