Australia’s one-day series against South Africa has begun in disastrous fashion, with the hosts collapsing to a 98-run loss in Cairns. After a solid start chasing 297, a stunning spell from South African spinner Keshav Maharaj (5-33) sent Australia into a freefall, losing six wickets for 29 runs to surrender the match.
The game was firmly in the balance with Australia at 0-60, but the dismissal of Travis Head (27) opened the floodgates. Maharaj then produced the fourth-best ODI figures by a South African in Australia, bowling with immaculate control to dismantle the middle order. His maiden five-wicket haul in one-day internationals rightfully earned him the Player of the Match award.
The Proteas’ total of 8-296 was built on the back of impressive half-centuries from Aiden Markram (82) and Temba Bavuma (65). The pair navigated the Australian attack with skill, setting a strong platform. A late blitz from allrounder Wiaan Mulder (31*) provided the finishing touches, ensuring their bowlers had a significant score to defend, even without the injured spearhead Kagiso Rabada.
Australian captain Mitch Marsh was the only batter to stand up to the South African attack, scoring a determined 88. However, the lack of support was telling, as the rest of the batting lineup failed to fire. Australia was ultimately bowled out for 198, well inside their 50 overs, giving South Africa a significant psychological edge early in the series.