Australia Restricts South Africa to 172 in T20 Decider After Brevis Blast
Australia's clinical bowling performance, led by Nathan Ellis's 3/31, restricted South Africa to 172/7 in the T20 series decider, despite Dewald Brevis's explosive 53 off 26 balls.
Nathan Ellis celebrates after dismissing Dewald Brevis during the T20 series decider between Australia and South Africa in Cairns
In a crucial T20 match in Cairns on Saturday, Australia's disciplined bowling attack, particularly at the death, restricted South Africa to 172/7 despite a blazing half-century from young Dewald Brevis.
Early Breakthroughs Set the Tone
After winning the toss, Australia's bowling unit continued their impressive form, striking in the very first over to remove the Proteas captain for just 1. The early pressure continued as Nathan Ellis dismissed Lhuan-dre Pretorius for 24, leaving South Africa struggling at 32/2.
Brevis Brilliance Lights Up Cairns
The game's momentum shifted dramatically when Dewald Brevis, showing skills reminiscent of some of cricket's greatest attacking batsmen, launched a spectacular counter-attack. His explosive 53 off just 26 deliveries, including six towering sixes, briefly threatened to take the game away from the hosts.
Australian Bowlers Fight Back
Nathan Ellis, who has been a revelation in recent T20 matches in Darwin, led the Australian comeback with impressive figures of 3/31. He was well supported by Adam Zampa (2/24) and Josh Hazlewood (2/30), who helped restrict South Africa's late-innings surge.
Key Bowling Performances
- Nathan Ellis: 3/31 (4 overs)
- Adam Zampa: 2/24 (4 overs)
- Josh Hazlewood: 2/30 (4 overs)
Rassie van der Dussen's unbeaten 38 provided some late resistance, but Australia's death bowling excellence meant South Africa could only post 172/7 in their allotted 20 overs. The hosts now need 173 to clinch the series.
Jack Thompson
Reporter based in Sydney, Jack covers climate issues, migration policies, and Australia's Indo-Pacific strategy.