ENG vs SA (2nd T20I) – Highlights
England delivered an extraordinary batting performance to crush South Africa by 146 runs in the second T20I at Manchester. Chasing a daunting target of 305, South Africa never found their rhythm as England’s batters dominated from start to finish. The result not only highlighted England’s explosive batting depth but also exposed weaknesses in the South African bowling attack, leaving the visitors struggling to keep pace throughout their innings.
ENG innings was defined by an astonishing display of power hitting from Phil Salt, who smashed an unbeaten 141 off just 60 deliveries, striking 15 fours and eight sixes at an extraordinary strike rate of 235. Salt’s innings provided the foundation for a record-setting total as he consistently attacked the bowlers, punishing any loose delivery.
Jos Buttler complemented Salt with a blistering 83 off 30 balls, hitting eight fours and seven sixes, while Jacob Bethell and Harry Brook contributed quickfire scores of 26 and 41 not out respectively. England’s total of 304 for 2 in twenty overs sent a clear message that their batting lineup is among the most destructive in world cricket, with the team scoring at an astonishing run rate of 15.2 per over. Extras, including eight wides and five no-balls, added to the mounting pressure on South Africa.
SA reply never gained traction against England’s relentless bowling attack. Jofra Archer spearheaded the English pace attack, claiming three wickets for 25 runs in three overs, while Sam Curran and Liam Dawson picked up two wickets each. Adil Rashid and Will Jacks provided crucial breakthroughs, leaving South Africa reeling at 158 all out in just 16.1 overs. Marco Jansen, Bjorn Fortuin, and Aiden Markram offered some resistance, but the lack of meaningful partnerships meant South Africa’s chase collapsed under the weight of England’s massive total.
The match highlighted ENG ability to combine aggressive batting with disciplined bowling. Every bowler contributed, keeping South Africa under constant pressure and preventing any attempt at recovery. The visitors were forced to rotate the strike without ever really building momentum, resulting in wickets tumbling at regular intervals. England’s fielding was sharp, with crucial catches and run-outs ensuring that SA could not capitalize on any opportunity. Phil Salt’s dominance with the bat earned him Player of the Match and the highest points in Cricinfo’s MVP list, reflecting his game-changing impact.
This emphatic victory strengthens England’s position in the series and demonstrates their T20 prowess, particularly in home conditions. South Africa, on the other hand, will need to reassess both their batting strategy and bowling discipline if they hope to compete in the remaining fixtures of the tour. England’s display of aggressive cricket serves as a benchmark for their rivals and shows the difference a single explosive innings can make in the shortest format.
England vs South Africa Scoreboard
England – 304/2 (20)
South Africa – 158/10 (16.1)
Result – England won by 146 runs
Player of the Match – Phil Salt
Phil Salt
ENG vs SA Playing Eleven
England | Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook (c), Sam Curran, Tom Banton, Will Jacks, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Luke Wood |
South Africa | Aiden Markram (c), Ryan Rickelton (wk), Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, Donovan Ferreira, Marco Jansen, Bjorn Fortuin, Kagiso Rabada, Kwena Maphaka, Lizaad Williams |
Disclaimer: These Match highlights reflect the author’s insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the points discussed and form their own conclusions.
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