Tim David’s Explosive 83 Powers Australia to 17-Run Win Over South Africa in T20 Series Opener

Darwin: Tim David smashed eight sixes in a sensational 83 off 52 balls to lead Australia to a 17-run win over South Africa in the opening T20 of the three-match series, marking the return of international cricket to Australia’s tropical north after 17 years.

Sent in to bat first, Australia posted 178 all out on the final ball of their innings — the first time they’ve ever been bowled out in a T20 by South Africa. Left-arm pacer Kwena Maphaka starred with the ball for the Proteas, claiming 4-20 in an impressive display. Cameron Green also chipped in with a blistering 35 off just 13 balls.

Despite Australia’s middle-order collapse — slumping to 75-6 — David anchored the innings brilliantly, building a crucial 59-run stand with Ben Dwarshuis (17). His attacking knock, which included some towering sixes, proved decisive. David was eventually dismissed on 83 after being dropped earlier on 56 by Tristan Stubbs, who later held the catch that ended his stay.

In reply, South Africa were restricted to 161-9. Ryan Rickelton offered resistance with a gritty 71, but Glenn Maxwell’s stunning boundary catch ended his innings and stalled South Africa’s hopes. Stubbs added 37 and shared a promising 72-run stand with Rickelton, but their partnership was broken as Australia fought back.

Josh Hazlewood (3-27) and Ben Dwarshuis (3-26) were the pick of the Australian bowlers, with Adam Zampa also striking twice in a crucial spell that turned the game.

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“It got close, but we were pretty far from our best tonight,” admitted South African captain Aiden Markram, who fell in the first over to Hazlewood.

Australian skipper Mitchell Marsh, reflecting on the team’s ninth consecutive T20 win, praised David’s match-winning performance:

“We want guys like David to come out and bat the way he did — he was the difference tonight.”

The second match of the series will also be played in Darwin, on Tuesday.