Tim David Breaks Warner's 16-Year-Old Record With Explosive Knock In 1st T20I vs SA

Tim David [Source: @BluntIndianGal/X.com]

Australian powerhouse Tim David rewrote the record books during Australia's comprehensive win against South Africa in the first T20I, eclipsing David Warner's 16-year-old benchmark for most sixes in a T20I innings by an Australian. 

The 29-year-old dynamo launched eight colossal maximums during his 83-run blitz, surpassing David Warner's six sixes during his 89 against South Africa in 2009.

Tim David Continues Record-Breaking Form To Salvage Aussie Innings

David's 52-ball masterclass showcased his devastating ability to clear boundaries at will. Now, David stands at the pinnacle of maximum sixes against South Africa by Australians as players like Mitchell Marsh and David Hussey follow.

(Table - Most Sixes In A T20I Innings Vs South Africa)

The powerhouse batter's explosive knock propelled Australia to 178 at Darwin, setting up a 17-run victory. Tim David's 159.62 strike rate innings included four boundaries alongside his record eight maximums, with his 29-ball fifty forming the backbone of Australia's recovery from 48/3 at the end of 5.5 overs in front of a fire-breathing Kwena Maphaka, who scalped 4 wickets for 20 runs.

South Africa's Chase Derails After Promising Start

Chasing 179, South Africa's innings followed a similar pattern to Australia's, an explosive start followed by middle-order stutters. Ryan Rickelton anchored the chase with a composed 71 off 55 balls, while Tristan Stubbs contributed 37 off 27 during their 72-run partnership. 

However, Josh Hazlewood's triple strike (3/27) proved decisive, with Ben Dwarshuis (3/26) and Adam Zampa (2/33) providing excellent support. The Proteas collapsed from 120/4 to 123/7 in just 15 balls, losing three wickets for three runs. 

While Rickelton and Kagiso Rabada staged a late fightback with a 35-run stand, the required rate proved too steep. South Africa finished at 161/9, handing Australia their first victory of the series.

---

ALSO READ

Australia Edge Out SA As Tim David’s 83 And Hazlewood’s Four-Fer Take Hosts 1-0 Up

---