Keshav Maharaj Five-For vs Australia Seals South Africa’s 98-Run Victory
South Africa gained a strong advantage in the ODI series as Keshav Maharaj five-for vs Australia secured a thumping 98-run win in Cairns. His maiden ODI five-wicket haul dismantled the hosts and gave the Proteas a crucial 1-0 series lead.
Maharaj Spins South Africa to Victory
Defending a total of 296, the visitors relied on spin, and the strategy paid off spectacularly. A spell of Keshav Maharaj five-for vs Australia returned 5 for 33, breaking the backbone of the Australian batting order. The wickets included Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, and Aaron Hardie.
Between the eighth and 17th overs, Australia collapsed dramatically, losing six wickets for just 29 runs. Maharaj’s control, flight, and turn proved decisive on a slow, spin-friendly pitch. His effort also marked Australia’s heaviest home ODI defeat by runs since 1991.
South Africa’s Batting Contributions
Earlier, South Africa’s innings was powered by three important half-centuries. Aiden Markram top-scored with a fluent 82, while Temba Bavuma made 65 and Matthew Breetzke added 57. Their contributions ensured the Proteas posted the highest ODI total at the Cairns venue. Despite losing quick wickets in the final overs, late runs from Wiaan Mulder lifted the side to 296 for 8.
Australia’s bowlers found help from the surface too, as Travis Head claimed 4 for 57 with his part-time off-spin. Yet, the target proved far beyond reach once Maharaj took control of the second innings.
Mitchell Marsh Fights Alone
Australia’s chase revolved around captain Mitchell Marsh, who fought hard for 88 runs. His seventh-wicket partnership with Ben Dwarshuis briefly raised hopes, but once he top-edged a pull shot, the game tilted firmly toward South Africa. None of the other batters offered consistent resistance against the combined pressure of spin and pace.
South Africa Lead ODI Series 1-0
With Keshav Maharaj five-for vs Australia, South Africa not only clinched the first ODI but also highlighted the strength of their bowling attack. Maharaj’s match-winning spell, supported by steady batting, put the Proteas 1-0 up in the three-match ODI series. The teams now move forward with Australia needing to bounce back quickly to stay alive in the contest.
