South Africa Stuns England: 5-Run Thriller Seals Historic ODI Series Win on English Soil After 26 Years

New Delhi(The Uttam Hindu): South Africa scripted history on Thursday night by defeating England in a nail-biting second ODI by just five runs, clinching an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. This triumph marks South Africa’s first bilateral ODI series win on English soil since 1998.

Back in May 1998, South Africa had claimed a 2-1 victory in England, and history repeated itself more than two decades later. England now faces the daunting task of salvaging pride in the third and final match scheduled for September 7 in Southampton.

In the second ODI played in London, South Africa, batting first after losing the toss, posted a strong total of 330/8. Aiden Markram (49) and Ryan Rickelton (35) set the stage with a solid opening stand of 73 runs. Despite losing early wickets, Matthew Breetzke’s brilliant 85 off 77 balls, supported by Tristan Stubbs (58) and Dewald Brevis (42), pushed the Proteas to a competitive score. England’s Jofra Archer was the standout bowler, taking four wickets, while Adil Rashid claimed two.

Chasing 331, England’s innings faltered under pressure. Skipper Jos Buttler (61) and Joe Root (61) fought valiantly, with Jacob Bethell adding 58 runs, but the team fell agonizingly short at 325/9. South Africa’s bowling attack, led by Nandre Burger (3 wickets) and Keshav Maharaj (2 wickets), held their nerve in the final overs to seal a dramatic victory.

With this win, South Africa not only takes the series but also delivers a strong message ahead of major ICC tournaments. For England, the third ODI remains a chance to avoid a humiliating whitewash on home turf.