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In the opening One-Day International (ODI) of the three-match series between South Africa and Australia, a resilient batting performance spearheaded by half-centuries from Aiden Markram, Temba Bavuma and Matthew Breetzke saw the Proteas men post a formidable total against the Aussies at Cazaly’s Stadium.
Aiden Markram, Temba Bavuma and Matthew Breetzke anchor South Africa to a strong total
After winning the toss, Australian captain Mitchell Marsh elected to bowl first, anticipating early movement and looking to restrict the Proteas on a pitch that later proved conducive to spin.
The South African innings commenced with a watchful yet productive opening partnership of 92 runs between Markram and Ryan Rickelton. Markram, in particular, was in fine form, crafting an elegant 82 runs off just 81 deliveries, adorned with nine boundaries. Rickelton provided solid support, contributing 33 runs from 43 balls. The duo effectively negated the early threat posed by Australian pacers Josh Hazlewood and Ben Dwarshuis. However, once the initial movement subsided and the ball softened, the South African openers began to settle, showcasing composure and good stroke play. Markram’s departure in the 24th over, caught by Inglis off Dwarshuis, brought a slight slowdown, but the foundation had been laid.
Following the openers, captain Bavuma took charge, anchoring the innings with a patient and well-constructed 65 runs from 74 balls, including five fours. He was ably supported by Breetzke, who played a more attacking role, scoring a brisk 57 off 56 deliveries, featuring seven fours and a crucial six. Breetzke’s modern approach, characterized by early aggression followed by settling into a rhythm, underscored South Africa’s intent. While Tristan Stubbs and debutant Dewald Brevis had brief stays, it was the late surge from Wiaan Mulder (31 runs off 26 balls, with two fours and a six) that propelled South Africa towards a competitive score.
Dewald Brevis hit a six off the first ball… out the next!#AUSvSA pic.twitter.com/Wmugvy3v49
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) August 19, 2025
Mulder’s vital cameo, which included a 99-meter maximum off the final ball of the innings, ensured the Proteas finished with a flourish, registering the highest ODI total (296/8) at Cazaly’s Stadium. Keshav Maharaj also chipped in with a useful 13 runs.
Solid batting performance from South Africa 🔥
– 297 is the target for Australia to win the 1st ODI 🏏#Cricket #AUSvsSA #SouthAfrica #ODIs pic.twitter.com/EC7C2Z4C1T
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) August 19, 2025
Also READ: AUS vs SA 2025 – Marnus Labuschagne’s stunning low grab sends Ryan Rickelton packing in the 1st ODI
Australian pacers toil hard, spinners find success
Australia’s decision to bowl first yielded mixed results. While Hazlewood (0/36 from 8 overs) and Dwarshuis (2/53 from 9 overs) maintained disciplined lines early on, the Australian pace attack found it increasingly challenging to make inroads as the pitch offered less assistance. The middle overs, however, saw the home side’s spinners come into their own. Travis Head emerged as the pick of the bowlers, bagging an impressive four wickets for 57 runs from his nine overs. His ability to extract turn and trap batsmen was crucial in breaking key partnerships. Adam Zampa also contributed effectively, taking one wicket for 58 runs from his ten overs, as the spin duo accounted for five South African wickets.
The Australian bowling effort saw seven bowlers being utilized, a testament to their search for breakthroughs. Despite his economical spell, it was notable that Hazlewood did not complete his full quota of ten overs. The pitch’s slower nature and tendency to grip certainly favoured the spinners, putting additional pressure on Australia’s batting lineup for the chase. With dew potentially a factor in the second innings of play and South Africa’s bowlers likely to find some swing under lights, the target of 297 promises a compelling chase.
