England wrapped up their ODI series against South Africa with a thrilling bang, smashing to a massive 342-run victory in the final match at Southampton. This win not only saved them from a clean sweep but also shattered the record for the biggest margin by runs in men’s ODI history. They beat the old mark of 317 runs—set by India against Sri Lanka in 2023—by a whopping 25 runs. What a way for England to bounce back!
Down 0-2 in the three-match ODI series, England knew they had to fight hard to avoid a whitewash. South Africa won the toss and asked them to bat first, but England’s batters turned the tables right away. They raced to 100 runs in just 13.4 overs, thanks to a fiery start from Jamie Smith, who blazed 62 off 48 balls, and Ben Duckett’s solid 31.
The real fireworks came next with a massive 182-run partnership between Joe Root and young star Jacob Bethell. At just 21, Bethell smashed his first international century—a brilliant 110 off 82 balls—making him the second-youngest Englishman to hit a hundred in men’s ODIs. Root wasn’t far behind, notching his 19th ODI ton with a classy knock. Captain Jos Buttler then turned up the heat, smashing an unbeaten 62 off 32 deliveries to push England to a towering total of 414 for 5 in 50 overs. Talk about ODI batting masterclass!
South Africa’s chase started on a nightmare. Captain Temba Bavuma couldn’t even bat after picking up a calf injury while fielding. England’s pace aces Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse ripped through the top order, grabbing three quick wickets in the first three overs. By the end of the powerplay, South Africa were reeling at 24 for 6. Archer kept the pressure on with a stunning 4 for 18, while Carse claimed 2 for 33.
The only brief fightback came from Corbin Bosch and Keshav Mahraj with a 20-run stand—the highest for South Africa in the innings. But spinner Adil Rashid sealed the deal, taking 3 for 13 to bundle them out for just 72 in 20.5 overs. England’s bowlers dominated, turning this into a historic rout.
Even with this crushing loss, South Africa clinched the series 2-1—their first ODI series win in England since 1998. It follows their recent 2-1 triumph in Australia, showing they’re on a roll in white-ball cricket.
Now, both teams gear up for the T20I series, kicking off on September 10. Cricket fans, get ready for more action!
Brief Scores: England 414/5 in 50 overs (Jacob Bethell 110, Joe Root 100, Jos Buttler 62*, Jamie Smith 62) beat South Africa 72 all out in 20.5 overs (Jofra Archer 4/18, Adil Rashid 3/13, Brydon Carse 2/33) by 342 runs.
