The action moves to the iconic Lord’s in London as England (ENG) look to keep the series alive against South Africa (SA) in the second ODI on Thursday, September 4. The match gets underway at 5:30 PM IST and with the visitors 1-0 up after a thumping win at Headingley, the pressure is firmly on the hosts.
England
It was a day to forget for England in Leeds. Bowled out for just 131, their batting lineup looked completely out of sync. Jamie Smith was the lone fighter with a fluent fifty but the rest of the order fell like a pack of cards.
South Africas Keshav Maharaj and Wiaan Mulder exposed their frailties and left them staring at defeat. Now, with the series on the line, England will need their experienced men to step up and deliver in front of their home crowd at the “Home of Cricket.”
South Africa
South Africa couldn’t have asked for a better start. Their bowlers did the damage early and then the batters chased the target down with ease. Aiden Markram’s blistering 86 off 55 balls set the tone and skipper Temba Bavuma will be delighted with how balanced his unit looked.
Heading into Lord’s, South Africa know they are just one step away from sealing the series and with their bowlers brimming with confidence, they will be eager to close it out.
ENG vs SA Head-To-Head In ODIs
| Categories | England | South Africa |
| Matches Played | 72 | 72 |
| Matches Won | 30 | 36 |
| Matches Lost | 36 | 30 |
| Matches Tied | 1 | 1 |
| No Result | 5 | 5 |
How Will The Pitch At Lord’s Behave?
The Lord’s surface is usually kind to batters in the early overs with good bounce and pace on offer. However, once the ball gets older, seamers and spinners alike can find help. Batters need to be cautious against the swinging new ball while bowlers will want to stick to tight channels to make inroads. Given the conditions, the captain winning the toss will likely choose to bowl first.
Players To Watch Out For In ENG vs SA 2nd ODI
England
Jamie Smith
England’s opener, Jamie Smith was the only positive from the Headingley disaster. His 54 off 48 showed class and composure. With confidence under his belt, he will be key again at Lord’s.
Joe Root
Joe Rootmay have missed out in the first ODI, managing just 14, but his recent record speaks volumes with 618 runs in his last 10 games at an average of nearly 69. If he gets going, England’s batting woes could vanish quickly.
Adil Rashid
Adil Rashid was England’s only wicket-taker in the series opener, claiming all three South African dismissals. His spin in the middle overs makes him the X-factor England desperately need.
South Africa
Aiden Markram
Aiden Markram was on another level in the first game as he blasted 86 off 55 balls and broke England’s spirit. His ability to dominate spin and pace makes him South Africa’s trump card.
Keshav Maharaj
Keshav Maharaj spun a web around England, finishing with 4 for 22 in just 5.3 overs. If the Lord’s track offers any grip, he will be licking his lips again.
Wiaan Mulder
Wiaan Mulder’s three-wicket haul showed just how effective he can be with the ball. Add his handy batting skills, and he is a complete package who gives South Africa balance in both departments.
Today’s Match Prediction: ENG vs SA 2nd ODI Match
Predicted Top Performers
England: Jamie Smith, Joe Root, Adil Rashid
South Africa: Aiden Markram, Keshav Maharaj, Wiaan Mulder
ENG vs SA 2nd ODI Match: Predicted Score
Predicted first innings score: 240-270
Predicted second innings score: 250-280
Predicted Result: Considering the strength, and recent form of both teams, we reckon South Africa are the favourites to win this match.
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England vs South Africa, 1st ODI
