South Africa’s young batting sensation Dewald Brevis delivered one of the most destructive T20I innings in history, powering his side to a 53-run victory over Australia in the second T20 International at Darwin’s Marrara Oval. His breathtaking 125 not out off just 62 balls not only sealed the win but also rewrote South Africa’s cricketing record books.
Coming in after an early wicket, the 22-year-old wasted no time in asserting dominance over the Australian bowling attack. Nicknamed “Baby AB” for his 360-degree stroke play reminiscent of AB de Villiers, Brevis dismantled the home side with a fearless display of power hitting and audacious shot selection.
Brevis reached his maiden T20I century in just 41 balls, the fastest ever by a South African in international cricket, surpassing David Miller’s previous record. His innings was laced with 11 sixes and 9 fours, many of them soaring over the midwicket boundary and deep into the Darwin night.
“Honestly, I just wanted to be fearless and back myself,” Brevis said after receiving the Player of the Match award. “The plan was to take it deep and capitalize on the shorter boundaries. The support from my teammates gave me the confidence to play my natural game.”
Thanks to Brevis’ heroics, South Africa posted a daunting 218/7. In reply, Australia’s chase never truly gained momentum despite Tim David’s quickfire half-century. They were bowled out for 165 in 17.4 overs, handing the Proteas a comfortable win and leveling the three-match series 1–1.
Former South African captain Graeme Smith praised Brevis on commentary, calling the knock “a generational innings” and suggesting it will “inspire a new wave of fearless cricket in South Africa.”
The two sides will now travel to Cairns for the series decider on Saturday, with Brevis firmly in the spotlight as the man Australia will be desperate to contain.
