South Africa secured a thrilling five-run victory over England in the second ODI, solidifying their dominance with a 2-0 series lead. Despite half-centuries from Joe Root, Jacob Bethell, and Jos Buttler, England fell short of chasing the 331-run target. This win marks South Africa’s second consecutive ODI series victory, following their triumph over Australia. It also signifies their first ODI series win in England since 1998, a significant achievement for Temba Bavuma’s team. England’s struggles in the 50-over format against South Africa continue, with their last bilateral ODI series victory against the Proteas dating back to 2017. This narrow defeat is South Africa’s second-closest ODI win against England, trailing only their one-run victory in Cape Town in 2000. Matthew Breetzke shone with an impressive innings, becoming the first batter in ODI cricket to score five fifties in his first five games. His 85 runs off 77 balls propelled South Africa to 330/8. Nandre Burger’s crucial three-wicket spell sealed the victory for South Africa in a nail-biting finish.
