Keshav Maharaj Spins South Africa to Victory in Cairns
Keshav Maharaj's brilliant 5-33 helped South Africa secure a 98-run win over Australia in the opening ODI in Cairns. Despite Mitchell Marsh's defiant 88, Australia's chase fell short, leading to their eventual dismissal for 198 runs. South Africa posted 296-8 with crucial half-centuries from Markram, Breetzke, and Bavuma.
Keshav Maharaj, South Africa's left-arm spinner, delivered an outstanding performance, claiming a career-best 5-33, which steered his team to an emphatic 98-run win over Australia in the first ODI in Cairns.
South Africa, after being put into bat, scored 296-8 with solid contributions from Aiden Markram, Matthew Breetzke, and captain Temba Bavuma, who all scored fifties. Although Travis Head bowled skillfully, claiming 4-57, Australia's batting line-up crumbled against Maharaj's spin.
Despite a valiant 88 from Australian captain Mitchell Marsh, the hosts were bowled out for 198 runs in just over 41 overs. The teams will head to Mackay for the second ODI of the series, keen to build on this competitive start.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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