On Sunday, September 7, England defeated South Africa by massive 324-run margin in the third and final ODI of the three-match series, played at The Rose Bowl in Southampton. Coming into the final ODI after
back-to-back defeats, the home side reigned victorious and went on to register biggest victory by margin of runs in the 50-over format.
For the unversed, Temba Bavuma-led Protea Men won the toss and elected to bowl first. As a result, England were put to bat first and posted mammoth 414 runs on the board in 50 overs, courtesy centuries from Joe Root (100) and Jacob Bethell (110) and crucial 60-plus knocks from Jamie Smith (62), and Jos Buttler (62*). In reply, South Africa were bundled out inside 100 runs, courtesy a four-wicket haul from Jofra Archer and three-fer from Adil Rashid and two from Brydon Carse.
Jofra Archer picks four-fer in his nine over spell in England’s 324-run margin
The English speedster breathed fire from the very start. Known for his unplayable deliveries, Archer was arguably the best he had bowled in the entire summer. Archer struck on the very second ball as Aiden Markram edged behind, followed by Ryan Rickelton nicking behind in Archer’s next over. The pacer then got Matthew Breetzkee and later got Tristan Stubbs caught at slips, thus finishing with figures of 4/18 in his nine overs.
With a thumping win against South Africa in Southampton, Archer proved to be a pivotal cog, also winning the Player of the Match award. Speaking at the post-match presentation, Archer who was unaware of the feat, said, “ Even before I bowled a ball, I knew it was going to be difficult, we scored more than 300. I didn't try to do anything different, just tried to hit the pitch hard and keep it straight. Even if you have a bad day, you have to go out and do it.”
Although, England won the final ODI, they suffered a series defeat with South Africa taking it by 2-1 margin. The two nations will next lock horns in three-match T20I series, starting September 10 in Cardiff.
