Australian star Glenn Maxwell lived up to his” Big Show” reputation, as he produced a match-winning unbeaten 62 off 36 balls to guide his team to a two-wicket victory over South Africa in the third T20I. So, Australia grabbed the three-match series 2-1 and extended their unbeaten run at Caims across formats.
Glenn Maxwell Steals the Show in Decider
Australia appeared on the ground to chase the target of 173. After a promising start from captain Mitchell Marsh (54 off 37 balls), the team put themselves into deep trouble at 122/6 in the 14th over. Then, Maxwell steps in with nerve in steel. However, he counterattacks with boundaries and clever strike rotation.
The game seemed to tilt toward South Africa because two wickets fell in the penultimate over to Corbin Bosch. However, the composed innings from Maxwell in the final have turned the direction of the storm. Notably, Australia needed 10 runs in the last over, where the veteran all-rounder struck a four and then executed a reverse scoop off Lungi Ngidi to seal victory with one ball to spare.
During the post-match, Maxwell said, “It was heart-wrenching when we lost a few wickets. Still, I only attempt to stay calm, see the ball, and back my area. Nice to get a couple out of the middle at the end.”
Brevis Shines for South Africa
Earlier, South Africa scored a competitive total of 172/7 after selecting the bat first. Moreover, young sensation Dewald Brevis smashed 53 off 26 balls. On the other hand, Rassie van der Dussen anchored with 38 not out. The spirited spell on 3/26 of Bosch has helped the team to survive. Still, the Proteas fell only short of a famous win.
Australia’s Winning Run Continues
This series win becomes the seventh consecutive T20I series for Australia without defeat since 2023. Moreover, the Aussies have won seven out of eight T20Is in 2025 alone. In addition, the team hit a remarkable 92 sixes – the most by any side this year. Moreover, Cairns has become a fortress because Australia has an unbeaten five ODIs, two Tests, and now this T20I here.
Mitchell Marsh praised the spirit of his team. He said, “We wouldn’t have crossed the line without Maxwell. Everyone has contributed to this series, which is huge for our confidence for the T20 World Cup”.
What’s Next?
Now, both teams will stay in Cairns for the first of three ODIs beginning from this Tuesday. Later, they will move to Queensland for the remainder of the tour.
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