Cricket in Darwin delivered exactly what fans crave — a contest alive until the very last overs. In the first T20I of the series, Australia edged out South Africa by 17 runs, thanks to a blistering knock from Tim David and sharp death bowling from Josh Hazlewood and Ben Dwarshuis.
Tim David’s Rescue Act
When Australia looked in real trouble, Tim David produced one of his best international innings, smashing 83 off 52 balls with eight towering sixes. His counter-attack dragged Australia to 178 all out in 19.5 overs, a total that suddenly looked competitive on the slow Darwin surface.
“I just tried to keep it simple — pick my spots, trust my power, and play the situation,” David said after being named Player of the Match.
South Africa’s Chase — Rickelton Threatens, Aussies Hold Nerve
Chasing 179, South Africa started brightly with Ryan Rickelton’s 71 off 48 balls, keeping the visitors in the hunt. At 120/3 in the 14th over, they looked set to challenge the target.
But Australia’s bowlers struck at crucial moments — Hazlewood’s 2/26 and Ben Dwarshuis’ 3/26 halted the momentum.
In the final overs, South Africa needed 21 from 6 balls, but Australia’s fielding intensity and yorker accuracy closed the door, restricting them to 161/8.
Small Moments, Big Impact
The game showed once again that in T20 cricket, momentum can shift in just a ball or two — one wicket, one boundary save, or one tight over can change everything.
Australia now lead the three-match series 1–0, with the next clash set for Tuesday at Marrara Stadium.
Quick Match Summary
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Australia: 178 all out (Tim David 83, Kwena Maphaka 4/20)
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South Africa: 161/8 (Rickelton 71, Ben Dwarshuis 3/26, Hazlewoood 3/27)
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Result: Australia won by 17 runs, lead series 1–0
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