AUS vs SA: Keshav Maharaj spins South Africa to emphatic win in ODI series opener
From 60 for one, Australia collapsed to 89 for six, with Marsh fighting a lone battle. His dismissal by Nandre Burger for 88 sealed the fate of the hosts, who folded for 198 in 40.5 overs, falling way short of the target.Earlier, South Africa set the tone with a disciplined batting performance. Aiden Markram played a fluent knock of 82 from 81 deliveries, striking nine boundaries to lay the foundation. Skipper Temba Bavuma added 65 in a steady partnership, while Matthew Breetzke's 57 off 56 balls provided momentum in the middle overs.
Despite Travis Head's four wickets with his part-time off-spin, the Proteas pushed their total to 296 for eight, aided by Wiaan Mulder's unbeaten 31.Australia's chase began brightly with Head scoring a quickfire 27, but wickets fell in clusters once Maharaj and his spin partner Prenelan Subrayen (1 for 46) were introduced. Burger (2 for 54) and Lungi Ngidi (2 for 28) offered valuable support, ensuring there was no way back for the hosts after Marsh's dismissal.Maharaj, who also chipped in with a handy 13 runs, was named Player of the Match for his decisive role in shifting momentum firmly South Africa's way. The result marked a strong comeback for Bavuma's side after their 2-1 defeat in the preceding T20I series.With the three-match series now tilted in South Africa's favour at 1-0, Australia will need quick solutions, particularly against spin, ahead of the second ODI.Brief ScoresSouth Africa: 296/8 in 50 overs. Aiden Markram (82), Temba Bavuma (65), Matthew Breetzke (57); Travis Head (4/57); Ben Dwarshuis (2/53)Australia: 198 all out in 40.5 overs. Mitchell Marsh (88), Ben Dwarshuis (33); Keshav Maharaj (5/33), Lungi Ngidi (2/28)Result: South Africa beat Australia by 98 runs- EndsMust Watch
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