Cairns, Australia — August 16, 2025
Australia wrapped up a thrilling T20I series against South Africa with a 2–1 victory, thanks to a match-winning performance by Glenn Maxwell that underscored the team’s growing confidence ahead of next year’s ICC T20 World Cup.
In a nail-biting series decider, Maxwell delivered an unbeaten 62 off 36 balls, guiding Australia to a last-over win while chasing 173. His innings, laced with eight boundaries and two sixes, came after a mid-innings collapse that left the hosts at 88/4. Skipper Mitchell Marsh had earlier laid the foundation with a brisk 54 off 37 deliveries.
Maxwell described the chase as “nerve-wracking,” crediting South African pacer Corbin Bosch for tightening the run rate during a crucial phase. “We lost a couple of wickets in a row, and I had to take charge. It was great to find the middle of the bat when it mattered,” he said post-match.
The victory marks another milestone for Australia’s evolving T20 squad, which now looks ahead to 13–14 more internationals before the World Cup campaign begins in the subcontinent. “We’re building something special,” Maxwell added. “This group is fun, focused, and hungry.”
Marsh praised Maxwell’s versatility, calling him a “world-class asset” who has adapted to multiple batting roles throughout the series. Tim David, named Player of the Series for his 150 runs across three games, echoed the sentiment, applauding Maxwell’s composure under pressure.
Australia and South Africa will next face off in a three-match ODI series starting August 19 in Cairns.