LONDON – South Africa has secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series against England after a dramatic five-run victory at Lord’s on Thursday. The win marks a historic moment for the Proteas, as it is their first bilateral ODI series victory on English soil in 27 years.
After winning the toss and electing to bowl, England’s bowlers made an early breakthrough, but a resilient South African middle order, led by a record-breaking performance from Matthew Breetzke, turned the tide. Breetzke, who top-scored with 85, became the first player in men’s ODI history to score five consecutive half-centuries in his first five career innings. His partnership with Tristan Stubbs (58) helped the Proteas post a formidable total of 330 for 8 from their 50 overs.
In response, England’s chase got off to a difficult start, losing opener Jamie Smith on the very first ball. Despite half-centuries from Joe Root (61), Jacob Bethell (58), and captain Jos Buttler (61), England struggled to maintain momentum. The hosts’ hopes were revived by a late flurry of boundaries from tailender Jofra Archer, who scored a quick-fire 27 off 14 balls.
The match went down to the final over, with England needing 16 runs to win. However, South African bowler Senuran Muthusamy held his nerve, limiting the English batsmen to just 10 runs, as England fell agonizingly short, finishing on 325 for 9.
The victory for South Africa follows their commanding seven-wicket win in the first ODI at Headingley on Tuesday. The two teams will now head to Southampton for the final match of the series, with England playing for pride. ATP
