England have played 21 ODIs since the 2023 ODI World Cup. Out of these 21, they won only seven, and were bowled out in eleven. When measuring their form with those dismal numbers, their mauling in the first ODI against South Africa at Headingley doesn’t seem too extraordinary. Sure, losing seven wickets for just 29 runs seems scandalous by any standard, but their consistent unawareness of how to play the format was destined to be met with such an end one day.
South Africa, on the other hand, didn’t slow down with a small task thrown their way. They wrapped up the game before the innings hit its midpoint, before even the floodlights got fully on. They were immaculate in the field and incredible with the bat, and looked exactly like a side that knew what they were doing.
This was England’s third defeat on the bounce against South Africa, having lost two earlier during the World Cup and Champions Trophy. All three of these defeats could easily land in England’s worst defeats in the format. They now have two chances to salvage whatever’s left of their reputation in the format, beginning with the second ODI at Lord’s.
Team Overview:
England went from 102 for 3 to 131 all out in seven overs. Sonny Baker conceded 76 runs in seven wicketless overs, making for the worst figures by an English bowler on debut. Aiden Markram took him down for three fours in the first over before sending him for 20 in his next. Fifty-seven of his 86-run knock came against the debutant. One could argue England were underprepared for the challenge, having toiled through a five-match red-ball series before playing the Hundred for a month. That does make sense. But what could also be the case is that England might have forgotten the golden mean required to play the one-day format. That isn’t to say they got out trying to be aggressive — most dismissals were tame. Or that they fell behind playing with a Test match’s pace. What it does mean is they couldn’t read the situation to act accordingly.
South Africa will be without Tony de Zorzi, who has suffered a hamstring injury. Fortunately for them, Matthew Breetzke has been cleared for selection. They could have him come in earlier and move the batting lineup a place below to fill de Zorzi’s spot.
Head-to-Head Matches:
South Africa are ahead with 36 wins in 71 matches played against England, who have been the winning side in 30 games.
Weather and Pitch Report:
London is forecast to receive plenty of rain on match day, and this being an ODI, it can’t be counted on to escape it. The overcast conditions would mean seam bowlers will hold sway. However, the venue tends to have a soft spot for batters as well. The last ODI played here was England vs Australia last September, where the visitors posted a 313 target in a rain-truncated 39-over match.
Prediction:
South Africa have not only played the format more recently than England, but they are also on a roll, so they would ensure England are reminded of it too.
Where to watch:
UK: Sky Sports Cricket, Sky Go
South Africa: SuperSport Channel, SuperSport Grandstand, SuperSport Cricket
Pakistan: Tapmad, Tamasha
India: Sony Sports Network
USA: Willow TV
