AUS vs SA 1st T20: Tim David’s Explosive 83 Guides Aussies to 17-Run Win

International cricket returned to Darwin in thrilling fashion as Australia edged South Africa by 17 runs in the first T20 match of the series, marking their ninth consecutive T20I victory. Sent in to bat first, Australia slumped to 75 for 6 early on. But Tim David’s blazing 83 off 52 balls, including eight sixes, reignited the innings and propelled them to a defendable total of 178. In reply, South Africa’s Ryan Rickelton’s 71 offered promise, but the Proteas couldn’t keep pace. Josh Hazlewood’s triple-wicket burst stalled momentum, while Adam Zampa and Glenn Maxwell tightened control, ending South Africa’s hopes at 161 for 9. The result wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. Australia’s aggressive batting and disciplined death bowling proved too much, setting a high bar for the rest of the series.