It was a nightmare start to the ODI series for Australia as they were comprehensively outplayed by South Africa, slumping to a 98-run defeat. A brilliant five-wicket haul from Keshav Maharaj saw the Proteas romp to a comfortable victory in Cairns.
The Australian chase of 297 began well but turned into a horror show in the middle overs. From 0-60, they collapsed to 6-89, with Maharaj the chief destroyer. His maiden ODI five-for left the Australian batting lineup in tatters.
The Proteas had earlier set up the game with a professional batting display. Aiden Markram’s 82 and Temba Bavuma’s 65 were the highlights of their innings of 8-296, a total that proved to be more than enough.
Mitch Marsh was the lone fighter for Australia with 88, but his efforts were in vain. The collective failure of the rest of the team meant they were always behind the game, eventually being dismissed for 198.