The South African cricket team managed to finally live up to their expectations of winning games at home, holding their fortress. Against all odds, the hosts were able to defeat the world-beaters England in the first ODI at Newlands on Tuesday.
After winning the toss, the Proteas decided to chase down the English total. A steady start, followed by a flurry of wickets derailed England’s ideas of posting a score above 300.
Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow posted 51 runs by the end of the first powerplay. England lost half their side at 108, with the loss of Tom Banton’s wicket in the 22nd over.
Joe Denly, with his face-saving knock of 87 off 103 deliveries, enabled the visitors to post a par total of 258 in front of the host. Wrist-spinner Tabraiz Shamsi turned out to be the best bowler for the Proteas, with figures of 3/38.
Chris Woakes displayed his all-round abilities with his crucial knock of 40 and gave able support to Denly at the other end.
After facing an initial setback, Quinton de Kock and Temba Bavuma added 173 for the second wicket to ensure a South African victory.
Captain de Kock led by an example through his knock of 107 in just 113 deliveries with eleven boundaries and a maximum, at a strike rate of 94.69.
Temba Bavuma looked solid at the other end, unfortunately missing out on his ton, with his knock of 98. Rassie Van der Dussen finished the game for the hosts.
South Africa eventually won the match with ease by a margin of 7 wickets. The loss, on the other hand, is a wake-up call to the visitors.
This series is now set up perfectly for a fascinating fixture at Durban in the second ODI. It was the dedicated bowling line up which took the game to the 48th over. So, it all builds up perfectly for the next game in England’s tour of South Africa.
