AUS vs SA 2025: Keshav Maharaj’s five-for powers South Africa to 98-run win over Australia in Cairns ODI opener

South Africa opened their ODI series against Australia in style, winning by 98 runs at Cazaly’s Stadium in Cairns, thanks to Keshav Maharaj’s maiden five-wicket haul.

Chasing 296, Australia started brightly with a 60-run opening stand but collapsed spectacularly once Maharaj entered the attack. The left-arm spinner tore through the middle order, dismissing Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, and Aaron Hardie in quick succession after taking his first scalp early. He finished with figures of 5/33, reducing Australia to 89/6 by the 17th over.

Mitchell Marsh fought a lone battle with 88 off 96 balls, adding 71 runs with Ben Dwarshius (33), but South Africa were always in control and bowled their opponents out well short of the target. Prenelan Subrayen, also on debut, claimed his first ODI wicket when he removed Travis Head for 27.

Earlier, South Africa built steadily to post 296. Aiden Markram anchored the innings with 82 in a 92-run opening stand with Ryan Rickelton, before Temba Bavuma played a composed knock. Matthew Breetzke contributed 57, sharing a 98-run partnership with his captain, while Wiaan Mulder’s unbeaten 31 off 26 balls gave the innings late impetus.

Australia’s best spell came from Travis Head, who struck four times, including the wickets of Tristan Stubbs and debutant Dewald Brevis in the same over. But his effort was not enough to prevent South Africa from taking a 1-0 lead in the series.