Tim David’s whirlwind 83 and Josh Hazlewood’s clinical 3 wicket spell powered Australia to thrilling a 17-run victory over South Africa in the opening T20i in Darwin
Australia recovered from a shaky start at 75 for 6, with Tim David tearing apart South African bowling attack to post a match-winning 83 off 52 balls, including 8 towering sixes.
Cameron Green’s blazing Cameo, 35 off 13, also added a vital impact as Australia posted a competitive total of 178
Despite young pacer Kwena Maphaka’s exceptional four-wicket haul (4/20), South Africa couldn’t capitalize. Ryan Rickelton’s gritty 71 and a brief partnership with Tristan Stubbs offered hope, but Hazlewood (3/27) and Ben Dwarshuis (3/26) struck crucial blows to derail the chase.
Fielding was also electric: Glenn Maxwell held on to a phenomenal boundary line catch to send off Ryan Rickelton, which was the turning point of the match, which also effectively closed the deal and sealed the fate of Australia. Meanwhile, a fan stole the show away from the action, completing a one-handed crowd catch, holding two beers in the other hand, which captured the imagination of fans across cricket.
With this win, Australia notched a record extedning – ninth consecutive T20i Victory, showcasing their depth, firepower, and belief in an aggressive attacking philosophy