Darwin, August 10, 2025: Tim David’s blistering knock of 83 off 52 balls, studded with eight towering sixes, propelled Australia to a 17-run victory over South Africa in the first T20I, extending their winning streak to a national record of nine consecutive matches.
Australia’s innings began with Mitchell Marsh clearing extra cover for six off Lungi Ngidi, setting the tone for an action-packed Powerplay. Despite a rapid start, the hosts slipped to 71 for 4 as Kagiso Rabada removed Travis Head and Josh Inglis cheaply.
Cameron Green (35 off 13) and David then mounted a fierce counterattack, combining power with placement to rebuild the innings. Young pacer Kwena Maphaka was the standout for South Africa, claiming 4 for 20 and dismantling key partnerships.
David’s onslaught — highlighted by a colossal six off Senuran Muthusamy that sailed over the stadium roof — lifted Australia to a competitive 178.
Chasing 179, South Africa faltered early when skipper Aiden Markram fell in the first over. Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs steadied the reply with a spirited stand, but Australia’s bowlers, led by Josh Hazlewood and Adam Zampa, struck at crucial moments.
Rickelton’s fighting half-century kept the visitors in contention until the final overs, but disciplined death bowling from Ben Dwarshuis and a flying catch by Glenn Maxwell at deep cover sealed the win.
The second T20I of the three-match series will be played later this week, with Australia eyeing another clean sweep to maintain their dominant form.
