Bhubaneswar : Glenn Maxwell produced a masterclass under pressure to fire Australia to a dramatic two-wicket win over South Africa in the third T20 international in Cairns. His unbeaten 62 from 36 balls, capped with a stunning last-ball reverse sweep for four, sealed the match and the series 2–1 for the hosts.
Chasing 173 for victory, Australia required 10 runs off the final over bowled by Lungi Ngidi. Maxwell calmly struck boundaries and held his nerve, clinching the contest with trademark audacity.
South Africa’s Brevis Shines, But Maxwell Turns The Tide
South Africa had earlier posted 172 for seven, thanks largely to Dewald Brevis’s explosive 53. The young star showcased his range of strokes before falling to a brilliant running catch by Maxwell at wide mid-on.
Corbin Bosch impressed with the ball, taking three wickets for just 26 runs, and briefly put the Proteas in control as Australia faltered in the middle overs. But South Africa’s inability to contain Maxwell in the closing stages ultimately proved costly.
Marsh Lays Foundation, But Collapse Opens Door
Australia’s chase began brightly with captain Mitchell Marsh hammering a fluent 54. However, a sudden collapse saw four wickets tumble in quick succession, reducing the home side from a position of strength to a shaky 122 for six.
From there, Maxwell marshalled the lower order with composure and flair, blending calculated aggression with calm shot selection to drag his side back into contention. His finishing touch—an audacious reverse sweep to the boundary—sent the Cairns crowd into raptures.
Series Secured, ODIs Up Next
The thrilling finale gave Australia a 2–1 series win, showcasing their resilience in pressure situations. Maxwell was named Player of the Match for his all-round brilliance, which included his crucial innings and an exceptional catch in the field.
South Africa will rue missed opportunities but will take confidence from Brevis’s batting and Bosch’s bowling heading into the one-day international series that begins next week.
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