Keshav Maharaj spun a web around Australia’s batting order to guide South Africa to a dominant 98-run victory in Carrara, in what became one of the Proteas’ most memorable ODI wins on Australian soil.

After electing to bat first, South Africa posted a competitive total of 296 for 8, thanks to solid contributions from their top order.

Aiden Markram led the way with an elegant 82 off 81 balls, supported by Temba Bavuma (65 off 74) and Matthew Breetzke (57 off 56).

Ryan Rickelton (33) and Wiaan Mulder (31* off 26) also chipped in with valuable runs. The openers gave South Africa a strong start with a 92-run stand before Travis Head broke the partnership by dismissing Rickelton.

Chasing 297, Australia looked in control early, racing to 60 without loss in 7 overs.

However, once Travis Head was removed by Prenelan Subrayen, the collapse began—led entirely by Keshav Maharaj.

The left-arm spinner tore through the Australian middle order, claiming five crucial wickets: Marnus Labuschagne (1), Cameron Green (3), Josh Inglis (5), Alex Carey (0) and Aaron Hardie (4).
His devastating spell reduced Australia from 60 for 0 to 89 for 6, a position from which the hosts never recovered.
Captain Mitchell Marsh fought a lone battle, showing resilience and class with a gritty 88 off 96 balls, including 10 boundaries. He forged a 71-run partnership with Ben Dwarshuis, who added 33 runs, but once Marsh fell, Australia’s hopes faded quickly. They were eventually bowled out for 198 in 40.5 overs.

Maharaj finished with outstanding figures of 5 for 33 from his 10 overs; his first five-wicket haul in ODIs.
Pacer Nandre Burger and Lungi Ngidi also contributed with two wickets each.
With this win, South Africa not only claimed the match but also recorded their biggest-ever victory over Australia in Australia in terms of runs.