The Australia vs South Africa 1st ODI took place at Cazaly’s Stadium in Cairns on August 19, 2025. South Africa dominated the match and won by 98 runs. As a result, they took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Let’s explore who impressed in this exciting opener.
First, South Africa set a challenging target of 297 runs, finishing at 296/8 in 50 overs. Even though Kagiso Rabada couldn’t play because of an ankle injury, South Africa’s bowlers nailed their game plan.
Keshav Maharaj stole the show. He took 5 wickets and earned the Player of the Match award. His brilliant bowling broke Australia’s batting lineup. Furthermore, his performance left Australia struggling from the start. Meanwhile, Travis Head led Australia’s bowling attack and took 4 wickets. However, despite his efforts, South Africa maintained control throughout the innings.
South Africa – Batting Score 296 (8 wkts, 50 ov)
| Players | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s |
| Aiden Markram | 82 | 81 | 9 | 0 |
| Ryan Rickelton (wk) | 33 | 43 | 3 | 0 |
| Temba Bavuma (c) | 65 | 74 | 5 | 0 |
| Matthew Breetzke | 57 | 56 | 7 | 1 |
| Tristan Stubbs | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Dewald Brevis | 6 | 2 | 0 | 1 |
| Wiaan Mulder* | 31 | 26 | 2 | 1 |
| Keshav Maharaj | 13 | 12 | 2 | 0 |
| Prenelan Subrayen | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Nandre Burger* | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
Bowling Figure
- Travis Head – 9 ov, 57 runs, 4 wkts
- Ben Dwarshuis – 9 ov, 53 runs, 2 wkts
- Adam Zampa – 10 ov, 58 runs, 1 wkt
When Australia began its chase, it immediately faced pressure. They could only put up 198 runs before getting bowled out in just 40.5 overs.
Mitchell Marsh played a solid innings, scoring 88 runs off 96 balls as he worked to steady the team’s performance. However, the middle order collapsed, and players like Cameron Green and Josh Inglis could not make big contributions. In addition, Australia missed experienced players like Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell. Their retirements after the 2025 Champions Trophy left a gap in leadership and stability.
Australia – Batting Score 198 (10 wkts, 40.5 ov)
| Players | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s |
| Travis Head | 27 | 24 | 6 | 0 |
| Mitchell Marsh (c) | 88 | 96 | 10 | 0 |
| Mamus Labuschagne | 1 | 6 | 0 | 0 |
| Cameron Green | 3 | 8 | 0 | 0 |
| Josh Inglis (wk) | 5 | 9 | 0 | 0 |
| Alex Carey | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Aaron Hardie | 4 | 10 | 0 | 0 |
| Ben Dwarshuis | 33 | 52 | 3 | 0 |
| Nathan Elis | 14 | 20 | 1 | 1 |
| Adam Zampa | 11 | 18 | 1 | 0 |
| Josh Hazlewood | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Bowling Figure
- Keshav Maharaj – 10 ov, 33 runs, 5 wkts
- Nandre Burger – 8 ov, 54 runs, 2 wkts
- Lungi Ngidi – 4.5 ov, 28 runs, 2 wkts
- Prenelan Subrayen – 10 ov, 46 runs,1 wkt
Key Moments in the Match
- Travis Head’s Quick Thinking: Head ran out Prenelan Subrayen with a direct hit. This sharp fielding moment changed the momentum temporarily.
- Maharaj’s Match-Winning Spell: Maharaj’s 5-wicket haul dismantled Australia’s batting lineup and ensured South Africa’s victory.
As a result of this win, South Africa now leads the series 1-0. Consequently, Australia must play better in the upcoming matches to level the series. Both teams will aim to improve and give fans more thrilling cricket.
In conclusion, the Australia vs South Africa 1st ODI highlighted South Africa’s strength and skill. Maharaj and Head delivered outstanding performances, and the series promises more excitement in the next games.
