Durban: Australia edged out South Africa in a nail-biting first T20I clash, claiming a 17-run win in a match that kept fans on the edge until the final over. The visitors combined explosive batting with disciplined bowling to take the early lead in the series.
South African opener Ryan Rickelton was the lone warrior for the hosts, crafting a determined 71 off 55 balls, decorated with seven boundaries and a towering six. Despite his valiant effort, the rest of the batting line-up failed to provide substantial support, barring Tristan Stubbs, who chipped in with 37 runs.
Australia’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Josh Hazlewood and Ben Dwarshuis with three wickets apiece, kept the Proteas under constant pressure. Leg-spinner Adam Zampa claimed two scalps, while Glenn Maxwell added one to his tally, including the match-defining dismissal of Rickelton.
With South Africa needing 20 runs off the last over, Rickelton’s hopes were dashed on the second delivery when Maxwell pulled off a sensational boundary catch to end his innings. The dismissal sealed Australia’s hard-fought win, setting the stage for an intense remainder of the series.