Australia has taken a 1-0 lead in their three-match T20I series against South Africa, securing a 17-run victory in the series opener in Darwin. The match, which marked the return of international cricket to the city after 17 years, was a tale of two explosive innings and a strong Australian bowling performance.
Australia's innings was rescued by a blistering knock from Tim David, who smashed 83 runs from just 52 balls, including eight sixes. His heroic effort came after a shaky start for the home side, who found themselves in trouble at 75-6. Cameron Green also contributed with a quickfire 35 from 13 balls.
For South Africa, the young pacer Kwena Maphaka impressed, becoming the youngest bowler from a full ICC member nation to take a four-wicket haul in a T20I, finishing with figures of 4-20.
In response, South Africa's chase was anchored by opener Ryan Rickelton, who scored 71. However, Australia's bowlers, led by Josh Hazlewood (3-27) and Ben Dwarshuis (3-26), consistently took wickets to stifle the Proteas' momentum. A spectacular boundary-line catch by Glenn Maxwell to dismiss Rickelton in the final over sealed the win for Australia.
The victory extends Australia's winning streak in T20 internationals to nine matches. The second T20I of the series is scheduled for Tuesday, August 12, also in Darwin.
