It was the perfect start to the ODI series for South Africa, as their batters built a strong foundation and spinner Keshav Maharaj destroyed the Australian chase to seal a 98-run victory. The clinical performance gives them a 1-0 lead.
The blueprint for the win was laid by Aiden Markram (82) and Temba Bavuma (65), who guided the Proteas to a commanding 8-296. Their patient and skillful batting put the pressure firmly on Australia.
Maharaj then executed the final phase of the plan to perfection. With Australia at 0-60, he was brought into the attack and produced a match-winning spell of 5-33, triggering a collapse from which the hosts never recovered.
Mitch Marsh fought a lone battle with 88, but he was no match for the collective strength of the South African unit. The Australian innings ended at 198, a clear indication of the Proteas’ dominance.