AUS vs SA : Keshav Maharaj’s rippling spell sends Cameron Green packing in maiden fifer to rock Australia in 1st ODI

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Keshav Maharaj delivered a match-winning spell to bowl South Africa to a commanding victory in the 1st ODI of the series, as Australia were bundled out for just 198 in reply to South Africa’s 296/8. Maharaj, who was the standout performer with the ball, ended with figures of 5/33, marking a career-best performance in the format. His brilliant left-arm spin completely outclassed Australia’s batting line-up, and the key dismissal of Cameron Green was a standout moment that showcased his skill and control. With South Africa’s bowlers applying relentless pressure throughout, they restricted Australia to a total far below their potential, taking a crucial 1-0 lead in the series.

Maharaj’s second breakthrough in the innings came at a pivotal moment, with Australia struggling to build any meaningful partnerships. His delivery to Green was a masterpiece of spin bowling. The ball, pitched around middle and off, straightened sharply as Green lunged forward in an attempt to play it off the front foot. The ball expertly beat the outside edge of Green’s bat and clipped the off stump, sending the Australian batter back to the pavilion with just 3 runs to his name. The wicket of Green was crucial in Maharaj’s growing dominance over Australia’s middle-order batters.

Maharaj had already set the stage with a well-disguised flighted delivery earlier in the innings that sent another Australian batter back. But the dismissal of Green was the highlight of his spell, showcasing the accuracy and deception that made him the most effective bowler of the match. With this wicket, Maharaj further tightened his grip on the game, giving South Africa the momentum needed to roll through the Australian line-up. By the time Australia reached 67/3, Maharaj had effectively undid any hopes of a strong Australian recovery. His relentless pressure ensured that Australia’s top order had no answers to the mystery of his left-arm spin, leaving them struggling to regain control as the game moved toward a quick conclusion.

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Maharaj’s bowling spell was a masterclass in control and deception. He started his demolition job in the 9th over ofthe innings by dismissing a well-set Marnus Labuschagne. From there, he tightened his grip on the game, taking a wicket in his very next over by bowling Green. However, it was his brilliant final burst that completely dismantled Australia’s chase. He accounted for the crucial wickets of Josh Inglis, Alex Carey and Aaron Hardie, single-handedly turning the match in his team’s favor. His disciplined bowling, which saw him give away just 33 runs in his full quota of 10 overs, ensured the Australian innings never recovered after his introduction.

After winning the toss and electing to bat first, South Africa posted a challenging total of 296/8 in their 50 overs. The innings was built on the back of three impressive half-centuries from the top order. Captain Aiden Markram led the way with a well-made 82, while Temba Bavuma (65) and Matthew Breetzke (57) also contributed with crucial scores. In response, Australia’s chase never gained momentum, as they were unable to handle the pressure from the South African bowlers, particularly Maharaj. The home side was eventually bowled out for just 198 in 40.5 overs, handing South Africa a commanding 98-run victory and a valuable early lead in the series.

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