South Africa won by 67 runs against Australia in the first ODI of the Australia tour of South Africa 2026/27, with Matthew Breetzke’s outstanding 112 setting up a commanding 297/8 before Keshav Maharaj took four wickets to dismiss the visitors for 230. The victory gives South Africa a 1-0 lead in the six-match tour.

Breetzke was the defining figure in South Africa’s innings, compiling 112 in a total of 297/8 from 50 overs. Marco Jansen supplied a powerful 75, while Temba Bavuma contributed 30 as the hosts built a score that left Australia with a substantial chase.

Australia’s bowlers made inroads, with Nathan Ellis taking three wickets and Adam Zampa claiming two. Josh Hazlewood added one wicket, but South Africa’s middle and lower order had enough impact through Jansen’s 75 to ensure the innings retained momentum and reached a formidable total.

Australia’s reply featured promising individual contributions but never developed into the sustained chase required. Mitchell Marsh led the way with 60, Matt Renshaw made 44 and Cooper Connolly added 38, yet the visitors were bowled out for 230 in 41.2 overs.

The match swung decisively through South Africa’s spin options. Maharaj’s four wickets put Australia under mounting pressure, while Bjorn Fortuin and Corbin Bosch took two wickets apiece to close off the chase. Australia were left 67 runs short with 8.2 overs unused.

Key performers

  • Matthew Breetzke: 112 runs for South Africa and Player of the Match.
  • Marco Jansen: 75 runs for South Africa.
  • Mitchell Marsh: 60 runs for Australia.
  • Keshav Maharaj: 4 wickets for South Africa.
  • Bjorn Fortuin: 2 wickets for South Africa.
  • Corbin Bosch: 2 wickets for South Africa.
  • Nathan Ellis: 3 wickets for Australia.
  • Adam Zampa: 2 wickets for Australia.

NerdSports Stat: Breetzke’s 112 accounted for nearly 38% of South Africa’s 297, and Australia’s 230-run reply fell 67 short despite still having 8.2 overs remaining.

The result extends South Africa’s early series advantage to 1-0. The teams meet again in the second ODI on Sunday, September 27, followed by the third ODI on Wednesday, September 30. The tour then moves into a three-Test series beginning on Friday, October 9.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who won the match between South Africa and Australia?

South Africa won the match by 67 runs.

Who was the Player of the Match?

Matthew Breetzke was named Player of the Match for scoring 112.

What is the series standing after this match?

South Africa lead the six-match Australia tour of South Africa 2026/27 1-0 after the first ODI.

Who was the top scorer in this match?

Matthew Breetzke top-scored with 112.

When is the next match in the series?

The second ODI between South Africa and Australia is on Sunday, September 27.