A triumphant trio of Aiden Markram, Temba Bavuma, and Keshav Maharaj led South Africa to a commanding 98-run victory over Australia in Cairns. The batsmen set a formidable target before the spinner delivered a knockout blow to secure a 1-0 series lead.
Markram (82) and Bavuma (65) were the cornerstones of the Proteas’ innings of 8-296. Their partnership and individual contributions ensured South Africa posted a total that would put the Australian batting lineup under immense pressure from the outset.
That pressure told in spectacular fashion during the Australian chase. After a solid start, Keshav Maharaj was introduced and completely dismantled the middle order. His career-best figures of 5-33 were the reward for a masterful spell of spin bowling that turned the game on its head.
Mitch Marsh’s 88 was a commendable effort in a losing cause, but he was left to fight a battle he could not win alone. The Australian innings concluded at 198, a testament to the dominance of the South African trio on the day.
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