Darwin – International cricket returned to Darwin after 17 years as Australia vs South Africa kicked off the first T20I of the three-match series, a key preparation stage ahead of next year’s T20 World Cup.
Australia vs South Africa: South Africa’s Four-Pacer Attack
South Africa won the toss and chose to bowl first, fielding a balanced XI with four seamers and four spin options. Captain Aiden Markram, back after resting during the Zimbabwe tri-series, will also contribute with his offspin.
The pace attack features Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Kwena Maphaka, and Corbin Bosch. In the spin department, both left-arm all-rounders George Linde and Senuran Muthusamy are included, while Dewald Brevis provides a legspin option.
Australia Strengthen With Head and Hazlewood’s Return
Australia have rested Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins once again, but Josh Hazlewood and Travis Head return to bolster the side. Captain Mitchell Marsh confirmed that Head will be his long-term opening partner for the upcoming World Cup.
Head’s inclusion pushes Glenn Maxwell to No. 7, while the explosive middle order remains unchanged with Tim David at No. 5 after scoring his maiden century against West Indies last month. Nathan Ellis and Ben Dwarshuis continue in the bowling attack alongside Hazlewood and Adam Zampa.
All-round options include Maxwell, Head, and Mitchell Owen, though Marsh and Cameron Green (batting at No. 4) will not bowl. Spinner all-rounder Matt Short misses the first two games due to a side strain, with Aaron Hardie called up as cover but not in the playing XI.
Fresh Opening Pair for South Africa
South Africa are also experimenting with their top order as Ryan Rickelton partners Markram at the top, with 19-year-old Lhuan-dre Pretorius set to bat at No. 3.
This match is the first of at least 11 T20Is Australia will play before the T20 World Cup, and also the first meeting between these two teams since South Africa defeated Australia in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in June.
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Playing XIs:
- Australia: Mitchell Marsh (capt), Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Cameron Green, Tim David, Mitchell Owen, Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood
- South Africa: Aiden Markram (capt), Ryan Rickelton (wk), Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, George Linde, Senuran Muthusamy, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi