Cairns, Australia – An extraordinary display of composure and innovation from Glenn Maxwell guided Australia to a two-wicket victory over South Africa in a dramatic third T20 International at Cazaly’s Stadium on Saturday, sealing the series 2–1 in front of a capacity crowd.
It was a match packed with momentum swings, standout individual performances and high-octane drama – and while a resurgent South African side went toe-to-toe with their hosts, Maxwell’s unshakeable poise under pressure proved decisive in the closing stages.
Brevis Spark Turns the Tide Early
Asked to bat first, the Proteas’ innings was sparked once again by the brilliance of Dewald Brevis, who produced a breathtaking 53 off just 26 deliveries. The 22-year-old, bettered his own national record for the fastest T20I fifty for South Africa by reaching the landmark in a blistering 22 balls. His innings included six sixes – three of which sailed over the grandstand roof – and set the tone after a sluggish start from the top order.
Tristan Stubbs (25 off 23) and Rassie van der Dussen (38* off 26) helped rebuild around Brevis’ assault as the Proteas posted a competitive 172-7. Nathan Ellis (3-31) and Adam Zampa (2-24) were key in restricting South Africa after Brevis’ early fireworks.
Marsh and Maxwell Lead the Australian Response
Australia replied strongly, captain Mitchell Marsh breaking his own lean run of form with a powerful 54 (off 35) at the top of the order. His opening stand with Travis Head laid a strong foundation, but a collapse sparked by Aiden Markram’s “gut feel” introduction of spin saw Australia slip from 83-2 to 122-6.
Kwena Maphaka (2-36), Kagiso Rabada (2-32) and Corbin Bosch (3-26) all produced excellent spells to drag South Africa back into the contest – Bosch in particular struck twice in two balls in the penultimate over to leave Australia requiring nine from the final six deliveries.
‘Big Show’ Delivers When It Matters
Enter Maxwell. Despite losing partners at regular intervals, the veteran all-rounder marshalled the chase masterfully. He refused singles to retain the strike in the closing overs and backed himself to finish the job off Ngidi’s final over. Two dot balls added real tension, before Maxwell unleashed a trademark reverse ramp with four runs required from the final two deliveries to seal a heart-stopping win with a ball to spare – finishing unbeaten on 62 from 36 balls.
The victory extends Australia’s unbeaten run in bilateral T20I series to seven, while for South Africa it marks a third consecutive defeat in high-pressure finals, adding to growing concern about their ability to close out tight contests.
Looking Ahead
Despite the defeat, the Proteas will take heart from the continued emergence of Brevis and the spirited fightback in the field. They now turn their attention to the three-match ODI series beginning at the same venue on Tuesday, hoping to build on the positives and execute better in the crucial moments.
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