T20 World Cup 2021 | Marcus Stoinis and Matthew Wade kept their cool, reflects Aaron Finch after Australia’s nervy win over South Africa

South Africa bowlers and fielders made the 119-run chase extremely challenging for Australia, reducing them to 81/5 in the 16th over. Marcus Stoinis however, ensured that the chase was sealed in the last over, with a timely 16-ball 24*. Matthew Wade (15* off 10) played his part in an unbeaten 50-run stand.

“The dugout was probably a bit more relaxed than I was,” said Finch after the win. “Anytime it comes down to the wire but Stoinis and Wade kept their cool there. It's what experience can do. Maxwell (1/24) did a really good job. We felt there were good match-ups for him in the powerplay, and then Miller came in and they couldn't go hard, they were in a bit of a holding pattern [so it worked out]. 

It was Australia’s just third win in 13 matches, after they missed a majority of their key players during tours of West Indies and Bangladesh earlier this season. Finch was pleased to have a full-strength squad at his disposal, and lauded South Africa for putting up a tough fight.

“There's never been any issue for us - we know people need to rest and I think for the longevity of Australian cricket it's a great thing. Nice to get the experienced guys back because it counts in a World Cup. 

Hazlewood, who got the key wickets of Rassie van der Dussen and Quinton de Kock earlier in the day, reflected on a game-setting spell.

“I think length was the key, hitting the right length, just on top of the stumps,” said Hazlewood as he received his Player of the Match award. “Anything slightly short or fuller seemed easy, so length was key. The wicket seamed reasonably good, but it was a little bit stoppy, a little bit slow. It plays that way during the day and gets easier at night.