Australia captain Michael Clarke plays a shot during the first ODI match against South Africa in Centurion. Photo: REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko
South Africa was 129 all out chasing a revised Duckworth/Lewis target of 223 in 29 overs after Australia made 183-4. However, even with a tough calculation for the host, Australia dominated throughout a curtailed match to take an early lead in the three-match series.
Former skipper Ricky Ponting made 63 opening the batting and shared a 102-run partnership with captain Michael Clarke as the tourists shrugged off a four-and-a-half hour rain delay in their innings.
Highly rated teenager Pat Cummins then shone on his ODI debut with crucial wickets as South Africa collapsed in 22 overs.
