Australia will aim to seal the three-match T20I series when they lock horns with South Africa in the second game at the Marrara Cricket Ground, Darwin, on Tuesday, August 12, 2025. The home side leads the series 1-0 after a hard-fought 17-run win in the opening match at the same venue.
Match Details
-
Match: Australia vs South Africa, 2nd T20I, South Africa Tour of Australia 2025
-
Venue: Marrara Cricket Ground, Darwin
-
Date & Time: Tuesday, August 12, 2:45 PM IST
-
Live Streaming: FanCode (App & Website)
First T20I Recap
In the first encounter, South Africa’s decision to field first initially looked promising, as they reduced Australia to 75/6. However, middle-order powerhouse Tim David rescued the hosts with a blistering 83 off 52 balls, guiding them to a challenging 178. Young pacer Kwena Maphaka was the standout bowler for the Proteas, claiming 4 wickets.
In the chase, South Africa faltered early, losing captain Aiden Markram in the opening over. Despite a fighting partnership of 72 runs between Tristan Stubbs and Ryan Rickelton, the lower order couldn’t withstand the pressure. Rickelton’s valiant 71 (55) went in vain as Australia’s bowling attack, led by Josh Hazlewood’s 3/27, sealed victory.
Team Overviews
Australia
The Australian squad blends explosive batting with disciplined bowling. Mitchell Marsh’s captaincy has been steady, and their batting depth — with power-hitters like Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, and Tim David — is a major strength. On the bowling front, Hazlewood and Adam Zampa provide control and breakthroughs.
Australia Probable XI:
Mitchell Marsh (C), Travis Head, Josh Inglis (WK), Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, Tim David, Mitchell Owen, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood.
South Africa
The Proteas have young talent and experienced bowlers but need better execution in pressure moments. Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs showed promise with the bat, while Rabada and Maphaka can trouble any batting line-up. Fielding lapses in the first T20I cost them dearly — a department they must tighten up to level the series.
South Africa Probable XI:
Aiden Markram (C), Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Lhuan-dre Pretorius (WK), Dewald Brevis, George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Senuran Muthusamy, Kagiso Rabada, Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi.
Head-to-Head Record in T20Is
-
Matches Played: 26
-
Australia Wins: 18
-
South Africa Wins: 8
-
No Result: 0
-
Tied: 0
Australia’s dominance in the rivalry is clear, having won over two-thirds of the encounters.
Pitch Report
The Marrara Cricket Ground’s drop-in surface was two-paced in the first match, with some deliveries holding up. Batters who spent time at the crease, like Tim David, could accelerate later. Bowlers, especially those who mix up their pace, will enjoy conditions. Another 160–175 total could be competitive.
Key Players to Watch
-
Tim David (AUS): In red-hot T20 form this year, his ability to rescue innings from tough situations makes him a game-changer.
-
Josh Hazlewood (AUS): Accurate and deadly with the new ball, his early breakthroughs often set the tone.
-
Ryan Rickelton (SA): South Africa’s most consistent scorer in the first game; will be key at the top.
-
Kwena Maphaka (SA): The young pacer impressed with a four-wicket haul and could trouble Australia again.
Probable Scenarios
-
If Australia bats first, expect them to push for a score above 170, relying on their middle-order power hitters.
-
If South Africa bats first, a cautious start followed by acceleration from Stubbs or Brevis could be their formula.
-
Fielding will be crucial — any lapses could swing momentum instantly.
Match Prediction
Australia hold the edge with their depth, form, and home advantage. South Africa must deliver an all-round performance to stay alive in the series, but given Australia’s proven ability to handle pressure and their recent dominance in head-to-head contests, Australia are favourites to clinch the series 2-0.