Australia Defeat South Africa To Register Their 9th Consecutive Win In T20Is News24 –

Australia began their T20I series against South Africa in style, winning the first match played in Darwin by 17 runs. Not only did the victory provide the home team a 1–0 lead in the series, but it also took their nine-match unbeaten run in T20 internationals to a record high – their longest in the format yet.

Early Struggles For Australia, But Tim David Steers the Innings

Blasting off, Australia were in early strife as South Africa’s pace battery struck the right lengths from the word go. As wickets fell, the Aussies were reeling at 75/6, with only Cameron Green’s aggressive 35 from 13 deliveries standing out among the top order.

But Tim David changed the game around, scoring a magnificent counter-attacking 83 off 52 balls, studded with four boundaries and eight mighty sixes. He shared a crucial 59-run stand with Ben Dwarshuis, and Australia recovered to put up a fighting 178 at the end of their innings.

Maphaka Makes History For South Africa

Despite the loss, the one ray of hope for the visitors was pace sensation 19-year-old Kwena Maphaka. He was brilliant with the ball, conceding 4 for 20, both his best T20I figures as well as the best-ever figures by a South African men’s bowler against Australia in this format. His efforts were a silver lining in an otherwise disappointing bowling performance in the death overs.

Hazlewood And Zampa Seal Australia’s Deal

Chasing 179, South Africa’s innings lacked firepower and urgency. Though Ryan Rickelton kept their hopes alive with an excellent 71 off 55 balls, the middle order failed to capitalise at crucial moments.

Australia’s bowlers, particularly Josh Hazlewood, made the difference. His double breakthrough in the 15th over, including the crucial fall of a settled Tristan Stubbs, set the match firmly in Australia’s favour. Adam Zampa mounted pressure in the subsequent over, taking two more wickets and leaving the Proteas with too much to chase in the last overs.

Marsh’s Winning Streak Continues

With this achievement, Mitchell Marsh has also solidified his leadership success, claiming his 22nd victory out of 25 games as Australia’s T20I captain. The hosts are now well-placed to face the rest of the series, with South Africa having to regroup fast if they are to stage a turnaround.