Maharaj spins South Africa to big win in ODI opener

Keshav Maharaj produced a star turn with his maiden ODI five-wicket haul as South Africa stormed to a 98-run win in the opening ODI at Cairns. Maharaj's 5 for 33 ripped the heart out of Australia's chase of 296, which had started brightly at 60 for 0 before collapsing to 89 for 6.

Australia's Chase

Mitchell Marsh fought with a 96-ball 88, but the result was never in doubt. Spin was always expected to shape this game, both captains suggesting as much at the toss, but Australia's unraveling was still stunning after smashing 50 runs in the first five overs.

Maharaj's Dominance

Maharaj then took over, beating Marnus Labuschagne's defence and striking him plumb in front. He next accounted for Cameron Green, angling it in from wide of the crease before beating him on turn. Alex Carey was trapped sweeping, while Aaron Hardie was bowled with a near-replica of the Green dismissal as Maharaj sealed his five-for.

South Africa's Batting

Aiden Markram, promoted to open alongside Ryan Rickelton, found the right tempo to reach 296. Markram reached his 13th ODI fifty off 54 balls, peppering the off-side with drives and cuts, before racing to 82 off 81. Captain Temba Bavuma carried on with composure and found an aggressive partner in Matthew Breetzke. Their 98-run third-wicket stand had South Africa on course for an even bigger total.

Brief Scores

South Africa 296/8 in 50 overs (Aiden Markram 82, Temba Bavuma 65, Matthew Breetzke 57; Travis Head 4-57) beat Australia 198 in 40.5 overs (Mitchell Marsh 88; Keshav Maharaj 5-33) by 98 runs.