Keshav Maharaj delivered a career-best performance to lead South Africa to a commanding 98-run victory over Australia in the first one-day international in Cairns. The veteran spinner took 5-33 as the hosts, chasing 296 for victory, collapsed to 198 all out.
Australia had been cruising at 60 without loss, but Maharaj’s spell of 5-9 in 55 balls turned the game. Debutant off-spinner Prenelan Subrayen started the collapse by dismissing Travis Head for 27, and Maharaj then ran through the middle order. Only captain Mitch Marsh, with 88, offered resistance.
Earlier, South Africa posted 296-8 after being put in to bat. Aiden Markram top-scored with 82, and Temba Bavuma made a patient 65 on his return to international cricket. Wiaan Mulder added a quick 31 not out late in the innings. Head took 4-57 with his part-time spin for Australia.
The win was marred by an injury to South Africa’s pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada, who will miss the rest of the series with an ankle problem. The second ODI takes place in Adelaide on Saturday.
