Throughout much of the first T20I, Australia seemed poised to silence critics who suggested they were rusty. After weathering some early turbulence, they looked like the dominant side for the majority of the play. Yet, England's resilience in the final moments proved to be the difference.
The match concluded in heart-stopping fashion on Friday in Southampton, with Tom Curran maintaining his poise to lead the hosts to a two-run victory on the final ball, putting England ahead 1-0 in the series.
Returning to the international stage for the first time in half a year due to COVID-19, Australia chased a target of 163. The chase started promisingly, with David Warner (58) and captain Aaron Finch (46) putting on 98 runs for the first wicket.
The situation turned dire for Australia following the dismissal of Steve Smith for 18. A sudden batting collapse saw them surrender four wickets for only nine runs across 14 deliveries.
With 15 runs required from the last over, Stoinis hit a six to keep hopes alive, but he failed to deliver on the final ball, handing the win to England. England's total was built on solid contributions from Malan (66) and Butler (44).