South Africa’s rising star Dewald Brevis produced a masterclass in power-hitting to script a stunning victory in the second T20I against Australia in Darwin. The 22-year-old hammered an unbeaten 125 off just 56 balls, the highest-ever T20I score by a South African, steering his side to a commanding 53-run win. This remarkable effort not only ended Australia’s nine-match winning streak but also levelled the three-match series at 1-1, setting up a thrilling decider.
Brevis’s innings was an exhibition of timing, placement, and raw power. He smashed 12 boundaries and cleared the ropes eight times, reaching his maiden T20I century in only 41 balls—the second-fastest by a South African. His knock also marked the highest T20I score ever recorded in Australia, further underlining its historical significance. Having walked in with South Africa under pressure at 57 for 3, Brevis took charge of the innings, finding an ideal partner in Tristan Stubbs, who contributed a handy 31 off 22 balls. Together, they put on a match-turning 126-run stand that shifted the momentum firmly in South Africa’s favour.
Australia had their chances, notably when Brevis was dropped on 56, but they failed to capitalise. From that point, he batted with complete authority, punishing anything short, wide, or full. South Africa eventually finished with 218 for 7, a total that proved well beyond Australia’s reach.
In response, Australia’s chase faltered early as Corbin Bosch and Kwena Maphaka ripped through their top order. Bosch’s disciplined 3 for 20 and Maphaka’s aggressive 3 for 57 ensured Australia never built momentum, despite a brief counterattack from Tim David, who struck a quickfire 50 off 24 balls. The hosts were eventually bundled out for 165 in 17.4 overs.
This victory was more than just a statistical achievement for Brevis—it was a defining statement. Often dubbed “Baby AB” for his stroke-making resemblance to AB de Villiers, Brevis showed he is not merely a future star but a present-day match-winner capable of turning games single-handedly.
With the series now locked at 1-1, the focus shifts to Cairns for the decider. South Africa will carry renewed confidence, while Australia will look to regroup quickly. For Brevis, this innings may well be remembered as the moment he stepped out of the shadow of comparisons and etched his own name into cricket’s T20I history.