Thrilling Finish: Australia Clinches 3rd T20I Against South Africa by 2 Wickets in Cairns

The Australia national cricket team secured a narrow victory over South Africa in the 3rd and final T20 International of their 2025 series at Cazaly’s Stadium, Cairns, on August 16, 2025. Australia successfully chased down a total of 173 runs set by South Africa, winning the match by 2 wickets and thereby clinching the series 2-1.

South Africa posted a competitive total of 172 for 7 in their 20 overs, fueled by a late surge of 30 runs in the final three overs. Rassie van der Dussen was the standout performer with a resilient unbeaten 38, anchoring the middle order effectively.

In response, Australia's chase was spearheaded by Glenn Maxwell, who played a brilliant innings scoring 62 runs off just 36 balls. His aggressive strokeplay was well complemented by captain Mitchell Marsh, who contributed a valuable 54 runs. Together, they guided Australia to the brink of victory, reaching 173 for 8 wickets in 19.5 overs.

Australia made key team changes for this match, including the return of Josh Inglis after recovery from illness and the inclusion of Nathan Ellis and Aaron Hardie, replacing Sean Abbott and the concussed Mitch Owen respectively. South Africa’s squad adjustment featured Senuran Muthusamy coming in for Peter as they sought to build on their previous performances.

Mitchell Marsh, the Australian captain, emphasized the tactical decision to field first based on limited experience on the pitch at Cairns and praised the venue while highlighting the team's confidence to seal the series. South Africa captain Aiden Markram remarked on the pitch conditions and the importance of swift adaptation to maintain pressure and potentially chase the target.

The intense match showcased quality cricket and strategic gameplay from both sides, concluding the bilateral T20 series with Australia emerging as the series victor after a closely-contested final game.

The full scorecard and detailed session reports are available on leading sports platforms including Indian Express and ESPN Cricket, providing ball-by-ball updates and expert analysis for cricket enthusiasts.