(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
England Crumble as South Africa Dominate First ODI at Headingley
England’s new white-ball era under captain Harry Brook suffered a crushing setback as they were thrashed by seven wickets in the first ODI against South Africa at Headingley.
The hosts collapsed to just 131 all out in 24.3 overs, before South Africa chased the target in style, reaching 137-3 in only 20.5 overs.
England’s Batting Collapse
England briefly looked steady at 82-2, but once skipper Brook was run out for 12, the batting unravelled.
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Jamie Smith was the lone standout, scoring a fighting 54 from 48 balls.
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No other batter crossed 15, with wickets tumbling rapidly against a disciplined South African attack.
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Spinner Keshav Maharaj was outstanding with 4-22, while seamer Wiaan Mulder picked up 3-33.
The final seven wickets fell for just 29 runs in a dramatic collapse.
Harsh Debut for Sonny Baker
Young pacer Sonny Baker endured a tough debut, conceding 76 runs from seven overs – the most expensive figures by an England bowler on ODI debut. South Africa’s Aiden Markram led the charge with a blistering 86 off 55 balls, punishing anything loose.
Even though Adil Rashid claimed all three wickets, the Proteas were never troubled. Ryan Rickelton (31*), alongside Markram’s explosive innings, ensured South Africa sealed the win with almost 30 overs to spare.
England’s Struggles Continue
England’s white-ball struggles have lingered since their failed 2023 World Cup defence. Despite Brook’s promising start with wins over West Indies earlier this summer, this was a sobering reminder of the challenges ahead.
A lack of preparation, partly due to players’ commitments in The Hundred, was evident as England’s batting looked disjointed and rhythm-less.
South Africa, meanwhile, showcased class and composure, making a strong statement at the start of the three-match series.
What’s Next?
The series moves to Lord’s on Thursday, where England will look to regroup and bounce back. For South Africa, it’s a chance to press home their advantage and seal another statement win.
