Darwin, Aug 12 (UNI) South Africa registered a commanding 53-run victory over Australia in the 2nd T20 International of their ongoing series at home on Tuesday, riding on a sensational century by Dewald Brevis.
After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Australia was tasked with chasing a challenging total of 218 for 7 set by the hosts.
South Africa’s innings was highlighted by an unbeaten 125 off 56 balls from Brevis, who struck with impeccable timing and power, hitting 8 sixes and 12 fours at a blistering strike rate of 223.21. His innings was supported by captain Aiden Markram (18) and Rickelton (14), who provided steady starts before Brevis took over the charge.
Brevis’ knock was a masterclass in aggressive strokeplay, with several eye-catching moments such as back-to-back boundaries off Josh Hazlewood in the 18th over, and a string of sixes off Glenn Maxwell and Hazlewood in the middle overs. He reached his century with a stylish pull shot to the boundary in the 14th over, a milestone that energised the spectators and his teammates alike.
South Africa’s innings also saw notable contributions from Stubbs (31) before he was dismissed by Adam Zampa in the 16th over. The lower order ensured the momentum was maintained until the last ball, with Rabada narrowly run out in the final delivery after a direct-hit attempt by Alex Carey and Sean Abbott.
On the bowling front, Australia’s Maxwell and Dwarshuis were pick of the bowlers, claiming two wickets each, while Hazlewood and Zampa chipped in with a wicket each.
In response, Australia’s chase never got on track. Despite some flashes of brilliance from captain Mitchell Marsh (22) and Tim David (50), the visitors were restricted to 165 all out in 17.4 overs. Kwena Maphaka and Corbin Bosch were instrumental with the ball, picking up three wickets each.
The wicket of Abbott sealed South Africa’s win, breaking Australia’s winning streak in the series.
With this victory, South Africa squared the series 1-1. The hosts will look to continue their dominant form in the upcoming fixtures, while Australia will need to regroup quickly to stay alive in the contest.
Match Summary:
South Africa innings 218/7 (20 overs)
Dewald Brevis 125 not out (56), Stubbs 31 (22), Markram 18 (13), Rickelton 14 (10)
Bowling: Maxwell 2/44, Dwarshuis 2/24, Zampa 1/46
Australia innings 165 all out (17.4 overs)
Tim David 50 (24), Mitchell Marsh 22 (13), Glenn Maxwell 16 (10)
Bowling: Bosch 3/20, Maphaka 3/57
Result: South Africa won by 53 runs
