Australia vs South Africa T20I 3rd Match Preview – August 16, 2025

Date: August 16, 2025
Time: 10:15 GMT / 2:45 PM IST
Venue: Cazaly’s Stadium, Cairns
Series: South Africa Tour of Australia – 3rd T20I
Format: T20 International
Live Streaming: JioHotstar
Live Score: MyFinal11.in

Match Overview

The 3rd T20I between Australia and South Africa promises to be a thrilling decider in an already electrifying series. The first two matches in Darwin saw an intense back-and-forth, with Australia winning the opening game and South Africa leveling the series with a dominant 53-run victory. Now, the teams meet in Cairns for a decisive contest that will see the series winner crowned.

The toss, which will be a crucial moment, is expected to be a key factor in determining the result. With a balanced pitch at Cazaly’s Stadium, both teams will be weighing their options carefully. The toss winner is likely to choose to bat first, with the hope of posting a competitive total. The pitch averages around 155 for the first innings and 145 for the second, suggesting that early wickets will be vital for the bowlers.

Weather in Cairns is favorable, with no rain forecast and temperatures ranging between 17 and 26 degrees Celsius. A slightly windy day could provide a helping hand to the fast bowlers, who are expected to play a key role in the match.

Head-to-Head and Recent Form

• Australia – 18 wins in 27 previous T20Is against South Africa
• South Africa – 9 wins in the same period
• Series so far: 1-1
• Last match: South Africa defeated Australia by 53 runs in Darwin
• Australia's record at Cazaly’s Stadium: Generally strong, with a balanced pitch favoring aggressive batting

Team Analysis

Australia (AUS)

Australia comes into this match riding on the momentum of their explosive batting and clinical bowling. The return of Tim David has revolutionized their lower order, giving them the ability to turn tight games into wins. His 133 runs in the series have been instrumental, while Cameron Green and Travis Head provide stability in the middle.

The bowling attack is in good form, led by Ben Dwarshuis and Josh Hazlewood, who have taken 5 and 4 wickets respectively in the series. With Sean Abbott and Adam Zampa adding depth, Australia has a balanced and experienced attack.

Probable XI:
Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Cameron Green, Tim David, Mitchell Owen, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Inglis (Wicketkeeper), Ben Dwarshuis, Sean Abbott, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood

South Africa (SA)

South Africa has been in inspired form, particularly in the second match where they outplayed Australia comprehensively. Dewald Brevis has been sensational, scoring a South Africa T20I record 125 off 56 balls in the second game. Alongside Ryan Rickelton and Rassie van der Dussen, the Proteas have a potent batting lineup.

Their bowling attack, led by Kwena Maphaka and Kagiso Rabada, has been effective in picking up crucial wickets. Lungi Ngidi and Corbin Bosch also provide late-order threat. South Africa’s ability to chase and defend has been impressive, with their bowlers exploiting the conditions well.

Probable XI:
Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Rassie van der Dussen, Lhuandre Pretorius (Wicketkeeper), Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi

Key Match-ups to Watch

1. Tim David vs South Africa’s Bowlers: The Australian finisher has been a revelation and could be the difference-maker in a tight contest.
2. Dewald Brevis vs Australia’s Bowlers: The South African star has already proven his mettle, and his ability to accelerate the innings cannot be ignored.
3. Ben Dwarshuis vs South Africa’s Top Order: The Australian pacer has been instrumental in breaking partnerships and could be the key to a tight chase.
4. Kagiso Rabada vs Australia’s Middle Order: The Proteas' pace spearhead will look to exploit any mis-hits and build pressure.

Prediction & Odds

• Australia to Win: 72% (SportsCafe.in)
• South Africa to Win: 28% (SportsCafe.in)
• Match Winner Odds (Parimatch):
  • Australia: 1.38
  • South Africa: 3.06

Prediction:
While South Africa has shown great character and depth in the series, Australia remains the stronger side on their home soil and with the better all-round balance. Expect a tight contest, but the edge remains with Australia, especially with Tim David in scintillating form.

Final Verdict:
Australia to win by 8-10 runs.

Betting Tips

• Australia to win the match: 1.38 (Parimatch)
• Australia to hit more sixes: 1.60 (SportsCafe.in)
• Tim David to be the top run-scorer: 1.69
• South Africa to score under 53 in the first 6 overs: 1.70

Conclusion

The third T20I between Australia and South Africa is shaping up to be a classic. With both teams having shown their strengths in the previous matches, the result will likely hinge on who executes better under pressure. The toss might well be the turning point, and the players to watch will be Tim David and Dewald Brevis, whose performances could define the match.

Don’t miss the action as the battle for the series heads to Cairns on August 16, 2025!

Watch live on JioHotstar.