Australia extended their record T20I winning streak to nine matches with a 17-run win over South Africa in the first game of the series at Darwin. A gritty rescue act from Tim David and a clinical bowling effort, led by Josh Hazlewood, sealed the result for the hosts.

Early Collapse, Tim David to the Rescue

South Africa’s pace attack, spearheaded by 19-year-old Kwena Maphaka, had Australia reeling at 75/6 after a fiery start. Only Cameron Green (35 off 13 balls) offered early resistance before Maphaka struck repeatedly, finishing with a brilliant 4/20 — the best-ever T20I figures by a South African bowler against Australia.

But Australia fought back through Tim David, who smashed 83 off 52 balls with four fours and eight sixes. His crucial 59-run partnership with Ben Dwarshuis pushed Australia to a competitive 178.

Proteas Fall Short Despite Rickelton’s Stand

Chasing 179, South Africa kept the scoreboard moving but lacked the finishing power. Ryan Rickelton anchored the innings with a well-made 71 off 55 balls, but Hazlewood’s double blow in the 15th over — including the key wicket of Tristan Stubbs — turned the game.

Leg-spinner Adam Zampa struck twice in the next over, leaving the visitors with too much to chase. South Africa eventually fell 17 runs short, giving Mitchell Marsh his 22nd win in 25 matches as Australia’s T20I captain.

Best T20I Bowling Figures for South Africa vs Australia

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