South Africa’s Complete Performance Silences Cairns Crowd

A complete and clinical performance from South Africa silenced the home crowd in Cairns, as the tourists romped to a 98-run victory over Australia. From start to finish, the Proteas were the superior side in every aspect of the game.
The dominance began with the bat, as they posted a formidable 8-296. The innings was a masterclass in pacing, with Aiden Markram (82) and Temba Bavuma (65) ensuring the scoreboard was always ticking over at a healthy rate.
With the ball, they were even more impressive. After a brief Australian resistance, Keshav Maharaj was introduced and the game was effectively over. His 5-33 was the centerpiece of a disciplined and ruthless bowling display that skittled the hosts for just 198.
The comprehensive nature of the victory left the Australian supporters with little to cheer about. It was a statement performance from a South African side that looks determined and well-drilled early in the series.