South Africa Beat Australia
South Africa beat Australia in the first ODI by 98 runs in Cairns. Their batting set up a big score while their spinners destroyed the chase. This result gave South Africa a 1-0 lead in the three-match series and a huge confidence boost.
South Africa batted first after losing the toss. The pitch looked tricky, but their top order played smart cricket. Aiden Markram anchored the innings with 82 from 81 balls. He rotated strike and attacked loose balls. Temba Bavuma supported him with a patient 65. Matthew Breetzke also added 57 with good stroke play. Their partnerships kept the scoreboard moving and frustrated the Australian bowlers. Towards the end, Wiaan Mulder scored quick runs. His cameo helped South Africa post 296 for eight. That total was above par on this surface.
Australia Struggle with the Ball
Australia tried hard but lacked consistency. Travis Head surprised everyone by taking four wickets for 57 runs. Ben Dwarshuis chipped in with two wickets while Adam Zampa added one. Their main pacers could not get early breakthroughs. South Africa’s steady batting forced them onto the back foot. Although they bowled in patches, they never built sustained pressure.
Maharaj Spins Through Australia
Australia began their chase quickly. Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head added 60 runs in the first 10 overs. The game looked balanced at that stage. However, spin turned the match. Prenelan Subrayen removed Head. Then Keshav Maharaj took control. His accuracy and turn troubled every batter. He picked wickets in clusters and reduced Australia from 60 for none to 75 for five. His spell completely changed the game. Maharaj finished with five wickets for 33 runs. It was his best ODI performance.
Marsh Tries to Fight Back
Mitchell Marsh tried to rescue Australia. He scored 88 with attacking shots. Yet, wickets kept falling around him. Ben Dwarshuis added 33 and gave him some support. Still, the pressure from Maharaj and other bowlers never allowed momentum. Once Nandre Burger dismissed Marsh, Australia’s hopes ended. The team collapsed for 198 in 40.5 overs.
South Africa Dominate All Departments
South Africa showed balance in both batting and bowling. Their batters built solid partnerships and their bowlers executed plans perfectly. Maharaj was the standout, but Subrayen and the pacers also played roles. Their fielding was sharp and saved runs. This all-round performance highlighted their preparation and focus.
Australia struggled against quality spin. Their middle order looked fragile once early momentum was lost. Marsh admitted after the game that they misread conditions. He praised Maharaj but also said they must adapt quickly. Australia might consider changes for the next match, especially adding another spinner.
Conclusion
South Africa beat Australia convincingly by 98 runs in the first ODI. Their batting strength and spin power proved decisive. Australia will need major improvements before the next game. South Africa, however, will look to seal the series with the same intent.
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