The South Africa national cricket team fought hard in the third and final T20I against the Australian men’s cricket team at Cazalys Stadium, Cairns, setting a total of 172/7 in 20 overs after being asked to bat first.
Early Struggles for South Africa
South Africa lost their captain Aiden Markram early, dismissed by Josh Hazlewood for just 1. Soon after, young talent Lhuan-dre Pretorius (24 off 15) played a quick cameo but couldn’t convert his start, falling to Nathan Ellis.
Middle-Order Fireworks
The highlight of the innings was Dewald Brevis, who entertained fans with a blistering 53 off 26 balls, smashing 6 fours and 3 sixes at a strike rate above 200. His aggressive stroke play lifted South Africa’s scoring rate after early setbacks.
Ryan Rickelton also played a steady hand with 13 runs off 13 balls, while Tristan Stubbs contributed a fighting 25.
Van der Dussen Holds the Innings Together
Veteran batter Rassie van der Dussen anchored the middle and death overs with a composed 38 not out from 26 balls, ensuring the Proteas reached a competitive total. At the end, Kagiso Rabada added a quick 4 not out from 2 balls.
Australia’s Bowling Effort
Australia’s bowlers shared the wickets with discipline:
- Nathan Ellis was the pick of the attack (3/31)
- Josh Hazlewood struck twice (2/30)
- Adam Zampa controlled the middle overs with 2/24
The bowling effort, backed by Mitchell Marsh’s captaincy, kept South Africa from crossing the 180-mark on a good batting surface.
Cazalys Stadium Pitch Report
The Cazalys Stadium pitch offered true bounce and encouraged stroke play, but bowlers who hit the right length got rewards. With 172 on the board, it promises to be a thrilling chase under lights.
Series Context – AUS vs SA T20 Series 2025
This is the series decider in the AUS vs SA T20 series 2025, with both teams eyeing a strong finish before moving into the international calendar. Fans following AUS vs SA live and searching for AUS vs SA live streaming in India witnessed an exciting contest where momentum swung back and forth.