An ODI to Remember for Maharaj, One to Forget for Australia

It was an ODI to remember for Keshav Maharaj but one Australia will want to forget quickly, as the South African spinner’s maiden five-wicket haul led his team to a 98-run thrashing of the hosts. A catastrophic batting collapse saw Australia bowled out for 198 in Cairns.
Maharaj was the undisputed hero for the Proteas, finishing with figures of 5-33. His spell completely changed the game after Australia had started their chase of 297 in fine style, reaching 0-60. The left-armer’s devastating performance sparked a collapse of 6-29, from which there was no return for the home side.
South Africa’s impressive total of 8-296 was the product of a solid team batting effort. Aiden Markram (82) and Temba Bavuma (65) were the cornerstones of the innings, weathering the Australian attack before Wiaan Mulder provided a late flourish with an unbeaten 31.
Australian skipper Mitch Marsh was the only batter to offer any resistance, with a hard-fought 88. His lone-wolf effort, however, was not enough to mask the deficiencies of a middle order that was completely outfoxed by spin, leading to a humbling defeat.