If the first T20I was a teaser, this one’s the main feature. On August 12, 2025, the Marrara Cricket Ground will be lit up again, and so will the stakes. Australia are a win away from sealing the series; South Africa are a win away from making it really interesting. For cricket fans following on Starexchange, this is where the series could tilt decisively.
Last Friday’s opener had everything — a batting collapse, a counter-attack that could make a highlight reel on its own, and a bowling display that kept the visitors at arm’s length. Tim David’s 83 was the spark. Josh Hazlewood and Ben Dwarshuis were the extinguisher.
A Quick Look Back
Nine T20Is on the trot. That’s Australia’s streak right now. They’ve swept West Indies, outmuscled South Africa once already, and they’re doing it with depth. When the top order stumbles, someone from the middle digs them out.
South Africa’s form? A bit of a patchwork quilt — some bright patches, some holes. Kwena Maphaka, making his debut, bowled like a seasoned pro. Ryan Rickelton gave them hope with a breezy 71. But four spilled catches and a lack of muscle over the rope told the rest of the story.
Darwin’s Role in All This
Early on, the pitch can be lively — enough bounce to keep batters honest. Give it a few overs, though, and it’s a different track. That’s when the big hits start flying. The forecast is clear, but the dew factor could sneak into the conversation, especially for the chasing side. For supporters following the game, Starexchange App offers an interactive means of remaining involved in the match's turn of events.
The Probables
Australia: Mitchell Marsh (c), Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Cameron Green, Tim David, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Owen, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood.
Travis Head returns. Matt Short still sits out.
South Africa: Aiden Markram (c), Ryan Rickelton, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis, Rassie van der Dussen, George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Lungi Ngidi, Kagiso Rabada, Kwena Maphaka.
No Hendricks, no Jansen, no Klaasen — more responsibility on the younger crew.
Keep an Eye On…
Tim David: The momentum shifter.
Kwena Maphaka: The fearless teenager with a knack for breakthroughs.
Glenn Maxwell: The wildcard.
Ryan Rickelton: If he bats long, South Africa bat deep.
The Conclusion
For Australia, this is about keeping the winning habit alive — ten in a row has a nice ring to it. For South Africa, it’s about proving they can recover fast, even without a few senior heads. One thing’s certain: under Darwin’s lights, you won’t need coffee to stay awake for this one. Follow every moment, every big hit, and every turning point live on starexchange — your trusted hub for cricket updates and insights.
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