• Australia clinched a dramatic two-wicket victory over South Africa at Cazaly's Stadium in Cairns.

  • The victory, orchestrated by a brilliant unbeaten innings from Glenn Maxwell, sealed the series for Australia 2-1.

Fans erupt after Glenn Maxwell helps Australia to defeat South Africa in final 3rd T20I to win the series 2-1
Glenn Maxwell (Image Source: X)

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In a thrilling conclusion to the three-match T20I series, Australia secured a dramatic two-wicket victory over South Africa at Cazaly’s Stadium in Cairns. After winning the toss and electing to bowl, the Australian side, led by captain Mitchell Marsh, was tasked with chasing a challenging target of 173. The victory, orchestrated by a brilliant unbeaten innings from Glenn Maxwell, sealed the series for Australia 2-1. The match was also a somber occasion, with both teams observing a moment of silence for the late Australian cricketing legend Bob Simpson, who passed away on Saturday.

Glenn Maxwell’s match-winning masterclass clinches series victory for Australia

When Maxwell arrived at the crease, the Australian chase was teetering on the edge. After a blazing start from captain Marsh, who hammered a quickfire 54, the middle order suffered a spectacular collapse, with the team losing four wickets for just 22 runs to slump to 88/4. With the pressure mounting, Maxwell took charge, displaying his famous big-hitting and composure. He found an able partner in Tim David for a solid 32-run partnership before the lower order crumbled around him, leaving him to complete the chase with the tail. Maxwell’s genius was on full display as he hit eight fours and two sixes, guiding Australia home with just one ball to spare and finishing on a magnificent 62 not out from 36 balls. It was a true masterclass from a player known for his ability to perform under pressure.

Dewald Brevis and Rassie van der Dussen’s revival fails to secure win for South Africa

After being sent in to bat, South Africa’s innings got off to a difficult start. The Australian bowlers, led by Nathan Ellis and Adam Zampa who each picked up three wickets, sliced through the top order, reducing the Proteas to a perilous 49/3. However, the innings was resurrected by a brilliant counter-attacking partnership between Dewald Brevis and Tristan Stubbs. Brevis, fresh off his second T20I century, continued his explosive form with a blistering 53 off just 26 balls, while Stubbs provided steady support with a crucial 25. The pair added 61 runs for the fourth wicket, shifting the momentum back in South Africa’s favour. A late flourish from Rassie van der Dussen, who scored an unbeaten 38, propelled the total to a competitive 172. Despite their strong finish with the bat and some inspired bowling from Corbin Bosch, who claimed three key wickets, the South Africans were unable to contain Maxwell’s brilliance in the final moments of the chase.

Also WATCH: AUS vs SA: Corbin Bosch cleans up Josh Inglis with an absolute jaffa in 3rd T20I

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also WATCH: AUS vs SA – Glenn Maxwell takes a jaw-dropping catch to dismiss Dewald Brevis during the 3rd T20I

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