In a thrilling contest at Marrara Oval, Australia beat South Africa by 17 runs to take a 1–0 lead in the three-match T20 series. Tim David and Josh Hazlewood starred for the hosts.
Australia’s innings got off to a nightmare start, with early wickets falling cheaply. But David’s 83 off 52 balls, featuring eight sixes, turned the tide. His big-hitting spree was aided by a dropped catch when on 56, which he punished immediately.
Rickelton’s 71 gave South Africa hope, but Hazlewood’s clinical bowling dismantled their middle order. Zampa chipped in with two wickets to keep the chase in check.
Maxwell, opening the bowling, bowled economically and later produced a jaw-dropping catch at the boundary to dismiss Rickelton.
This result extends Australia’s formidable T20 record and leaves South Africa desperate for a turnaround in the second match.