South Africa overcame a threatening bowling spell from Travis Head to secure a comprehensive 98-run win over Australia, with Keshav Maharaj turning in a masterful, match-winning performance. Head’s 4-57 evoked memories of his World Cup semi-final heroics, but Maharaj’s 5-33 ensured there would be no repeat heartbreak for the Proteas.
Head, the unlikely bowling star for Australia, made significant inroads by claiming three wickets in an over. His efforts helped restrict the damage, but South Africa still managed a strong total of 8-296, thanks to excellent innings from Aiden Markram (82) and Temba Bavuma (65).
The Australian chase began confidently, but the ghosts of collapses past soon returned. After reaching 0-60, the innings unraveled against spin. This time, it was Maharaj who played the role of destroyer, producing the best bowling figures of his ODI career to leave the Australian middle order in shambles.
Mitch Marsh fought a lone hand with 88, but the damage was already done. The Australian batting lineup had no answers for Maharaj’s skill, collapsing to be all out for 198. The victory was sweet revenge for South Africa and a perfect start to their ODI campaign.