ENG vs SA: England crush Proteas in unforgettable ODI final

SOUTHAMPTON: England delivered a ruthless reminder of their ODI dominance as they demolished South Africa by a staggering 342 runs in the third and final ODI at Southampton. While the Proteas still clinched the series 2-1, the final was all about England’s explosive batting and lethal pace attack.

South African had elected to bowl first after winning the toss.

England batting-line

England made the most of ideal batting conditions. The top order fired on all cylinders, with Jacob Bethell stealing the show with a brilliant 110 off 82 balls, setting the tone early. Veteran Joe Root added class to the carnage with a composed 100 from 96 deliveries, while skipper Jos Buttler provided fireworks at the end, smashing 62-not out off just 32 balls. England finished on a towering 414-5 in their 50 overs, one of their highest ODI totals ever.

🚨 ENGLAND BEAT SOUTH AFRICA BY A RECORD 342 RUNS MARGIN – THE BIGGEST EVER IN ODI HISTORY. 🚨 pic.twitter.com/7VoiaKOwsV

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) September 7, 2025

Proteas bowling attack was torn apart. Only Keshav Maharaj (2-61) managed to keep some control and continued his stellar run. He earned the Player of the Series award for his consistent performances across the three matches.

South Africa ODI series batting-line

South Africa never looked in the chase. England’s bowlers, led by a fiery Jofra Archer, ripped through the Proteas’ lineup. Archer took four wickets for just 18 runs in nine overs. That earned him the Player of the Match title. Adil Rashid, who well supported Jofra Archer, chipped in with 3-13, and Brydon Carse with 2-33.

The Proteas smashed after hardly making 72 runs in 20.5 overs, suffering one of their heaviest ODI defeats in history.

Champions with a smile! 😃🏆📸#ENGvSA#SouthAfrica#Proteas pic.twitter.com/K5oVVnRVMe

— Joburg Super Kings (@JSKSA20) September 7, 2025

Despite the humiliating loss in the final game, South Africa walked away with the series win (2-1). They have secured victories in the first two ODIs. However, the final ODI will be remembered for England’s total domination.