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By amassing a total of 226 for six in their 20 overs, Australia took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
This score stands as the highest ever recorded at Kingsmead. In response, South Africa struggled to gain momentum and was ultimately dismissed for a mere 115 runs.
The second match of the series is scheduled for Friday, followed by the conclusion two days later. All three matches will take place in Durban. Notably, both teams are without several of their regular players.
Australia’s batting performance was anchored by Mitch Marsh, who efficiently reached his half-century in just 22 deliveries. His partnership of 97 runs off 50 balls with Tim David was particularly noteworthy. David’s impressive innings featured four sixes as he amassed 64 runs from 28 balls, comfortably clearing the relatively small boundaries.
“It’s nice to contribute for the team,” Marsh said at the post-match presentation. “I thought Tim David was fantastic with the way he took pressure off me.”
South Africa were sloppy in the field and at times battled to control line and length with the ball. Seamer Lizaad Williams was the pick of the home attack with 3-44 in his four overs.
Opener Reeza Hendricks led a near lone challenge to Australia’s total with a well-constructed 56 from 43 balls, as the home side were pegged back by an excellent spell of 4-31 from debutant leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha.
“Sangha has done well in the Big Bash and he’s a fantastic talent,” Marsh said.
Seamer Marcus Stoinis pitched in with 3-18 in a fine display of swing bowling.
Australia also handed debuts to opening batter Matthew Short all-rounder Aaron Hardie and fast bowler Spencer Johnson, while South Africa’s under-strength side included new faces in batter Dewald Brevis and seamer Gerald Coetzee.
“The wicket played really well and there was a bit of rust in every discipline,” South Africa captain Aiden Markram said. “We have to come back strong on Friday.”
(With inputs from Reuters)
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