South Africa turned in a clinical all-round display to defeat Australia by 98 runs in the first ODI at Cairns and lead the three-match series 1-0. Aiden Markram's steady knock at the top laid the foundation, and then Keshav Maharaj spun his magic with the ball to decimate the home side's resistance.
Australia captain Mitchell Marsh opted to field first after winning the toss, and the Proteas constructed their total around Markram's elegant 82 from 81 deliveries, a knock filled with nine boundaries and flawless timing. He partnered Ryan Rickelton (33) for a solid start before skipper Temba Bavuma (65 off 74 balls) contributed stoic authority in the middle overs to make sure South Africa made the most of the platform.
Late acceleration was provided by Matthew Breetzke's energetic 57 and Wiaan Mulder's 31 not out, taking the visitors to 296/8. Travis Head's 4/57 stifled their charge to over 320, but on a surface holding for spin, the score was always daunting.
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Keshav Maharaj’s Fifer Hands South Africa Win Over Australia
Australia's response started energetically, with Head (27) and skipper Mitchell Marsh (88) sprinting to 60 off the first seven overs. However, the innings fell apart spectacularly after Maharaj came into the attack. The left-arm spinner bowled with cunning and precision, breaking down the middle order for wickets of Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey and Aaron Hardie.
His 5/33 in 10 overs shattered Australia's back, cutting them down from 67/2 to 89/6. Marsh fought in isolation with an aggressor's 88, but his fall to Nandre Burger put an end to all revival hopes. Even after Ben Dwarshuis courageous 33, Australia were bowled out for 198 off 40.5 overs.
Maharaj's excellence deservedly earned him the Player of the Match award, whereas Markram's innings laid the platform for an overpowering performance. For South Africa, the thumping win highlighted their depth and balance, whereas Australia will need speedy solutions to their spin woes in order to remain in the series.
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