Australia secured a thrilling 17-run win over South Africa in the first T20I, marking a record ninth consecutive T20I victory for the team. This dominant streak underlines Australia’s unmatched form in the shortest format.
The match saw a rollercoaster start, with South Africa’s pacers rattling Australia’s top order. At 75-6, Cameron Green’s explosive 35 off 13 balls was the only notable resistance. Then came Tim David’s masterclass — a blistering 83 off 52 deliveries, featuring four fours and eight sixes. His 59-run stand with Ben Dwarshuis lifted Australia to a competitive total of 178.
South Africa’s biggest highlight was the emergence of 19-year-old pacer Kwena Maphaka, who delivered the best-ever bowling figures by a South African against Australia in T20Is.
Best Figures for a South Africa Bowler vs Australia in T20Is
| Name | Year | Ground | Figures |
| Kwena Maphaka | 2025 | Darwin | 4/20 |
| Kyle Abbott | 2014 | Adelaide | 3/21 |
| David Wiese | 2014 | Sydney | 3/21 |
| Imran Tahir | 2016 | Durban | 3/21 |
| Andrew Hall | 2006 | Johannesburg | 3/22 |
In the chase, South Africa’s lack of big-hitting hurt them. Josh Hazlewood’s double-strike in the 15th over, including Tristan Stubbs’ wicket, swung momentum toward Australia. Adam Zampa followed up with two quick wickets, leaving the Proteas struggling.
Ryan Rickelton fought hard with a determined 71 off 55 balls, but the visitors fell 17 runs short. With this win, Mitchell Marsh boasts 22 victories in 25 matches as Australia’s T20I captain, cementing their dominance ahead of the series’ remaining games.