Cardiff, September 10, 2025 – South Africa claimed a 14-run victory (via DLS method) over England in the opening T20I of their series at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff. The match, heavily affected by rain, was reduced to a nine-over contest per side, creating high drama before South Africa eventually emerged winners to take a 1–0 lead in the series.
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| Pure fireworks from Donovan Ferreira! |
Match Summary
England (Target 69 in 5 overs by DLS): 54/5
Result: South Africa won by 14 runs
South Africa’s Batting Effort
South Africa scored 97/5 in 7.5 overs before rain ended their innings.Aiden Markram anchored with a quick 28 runs, keeping the scoreboard ticking.
Dewald Brevis chipped in with a handy 23 runs, showing his big-hitting potential.
Donovan Ferreira played a powerful cameo, lifting South Africa to a strong total that proved decisive.
England’s Struggles in the Chase
Chasing a revised target of 69 runs in just 5 overs under the DLS system, England were immediately under pressure.
However, wickets fell rapidly around him, and England’s middle-order collapse left them stranded at 54/5 after 5 overs, short of the target by 14 runs.
Key Performers
England: Jos Buttler – 25 (11 balls) was the lone standout in an otherwise disappointing batting display.
Key Moments
England’s Collapse: Early wickets in the chase meant Buttler’s cameo was never enough.
South Africa’s Bowling Discipline: Rabada and Jansen set the tone, making the run chase nearly impossible.
Awards
Player of the Match: Donovan Ferreira – for his explosive batting that set up South Africa’s defendable total.
Series Outlook
With this win, South Africa lead the 3-match T20I series 1–0, leaving England with work to do in the second game. The Proteas will be encouraged by their bowling depth and adaptability under DLS conditions, while England will seek more stability in their batting.
FAQs
Q1: Who won the 1st T20I between England and South Africa in 2025?
South Africa won the 1st T20I by 14 runs (via DLS method) against England at Cardiff on September 10, 2025.
Q2: Why was the England vs South Africa T20I shortened?
Heavy rain in Cardiff reduced the match to just 9 overs per side. Further interruptions led to England chasing a revised DLS target.
Q3: What was the DLS target given to England?
England were set a target of 69 runs in 5 overs under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method.
Q4: Who was the top scorer for England in the match?
England captain Jos Buttler top-scored with 25 runs off 11 balls.
Q5: Which South African bowlers made an impact in the 1st T20I?
Fast bowlers Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen were instrumental, using pace and accuracy to restrict England’s batting.
Q6: What is the current T20I series score between England and South Africa?
After this match, South Africa lead the 3-match T20I series 1–0.
