South Africa Crushes England by 7 Wickets in ODI Opener
Aiden Markram’s 86 powers SA to an easy victory as England collapses for 131 at Headingley.
South Africa delivered a stunning blow to England in the first of three one-day internationals, chasing down a paltry 131 with ease to secure a seven-wicket victory on Tuesday at Headingley. Aiden Markram’s blistering 86 off 55 balls stole the show, while England’s batting lineup crumbled under pressure from Keshav Maharaj (4-22) and Wiaan Mulder (3-33).
England, fresh off their domestic Hundred competition, looked out of sorts after being sent in to bat on a dry wicket. Captain Temba Bavuma’s decision to bowl first paid off as the hosts were skittled for 131 in just 24.3 overs. Jamie Smith’s 54 off 48 was the only resistance in an otherwise dismal performance.
South Africa’s chase was relentless, finishing with 175 balls to spare. Debutant Sonny Baker endured a nightmare, leaking 76 runs in seven overs, including three boundaries in his first over to Markram. Despite late wickets from Adil Rashid (3-26), Dewald Brevis sealed the win in style with a towering six.
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“We had a bad day. We mis-executed a lot of our skills,” admitted England captain Harry Brook. “Nobody wants to come and watch that. We’ve got to put it behind us and move on.”
South Africa, missing stars Kagiso Rabada (ankle injury) and retired Heinrich Klaasen, showed no signs of weakness. The second ODI looms at Lord’s on Thursday, with England desperate to avoid another embarrassment.
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