England, known for their aggressive "Bazball" style of cricket, typically carry this approach into Test matches. However, during their recent Test series against India, a slight shift in mindset was noticeable under Ben Stokes' leadership. On Tuesday, England began an ODI series against South Africa, but their aggressive batting approach led to a collapse, as they were bowled out for just 131 runs in 24.3 overs.
At Headingley in Leeds, England faced a batting disaster, setting several embarrassing records. South African bowlers Keshav Maharaj and Wiaan Mulder wreaked havoc, with Jamie Smith being the only English batter to score significantly, making 54 runs. No other batter managed to cross the 15-run mark. Losing the toss and batting first, England lost wickets consistently from the start.
Despite a fifty from one batter, England’s total of 131 is their third-lowest in ODI history. Previously, they were bowled out for 125 against West Indies in 1981 (Ian Botham’s 60) and for 127 against New Zealand in 1983 (David Gower’s 53). Against South Africa, England have been dismissed for even lower totals in the past: 103 in Oval (1999), 111 in Johannesburg (2000), and 115 in East London (1996).
Additionally, England’s 131 at Headingley is their second-lowest ODI total at the venue, with their lowest being 93 against Australia in the 1975 World Cup. In terms of quickest ODI dismissals, this match ranks fifth for England. They lasted just 24.3 overs against South Africa, compared to 22 overs against the same team in the 2023 World Cup, 23.3 and 24 overs in two separate matches against New Zealand, and 24.2 overs against Pakistan.
England also set an unwanted record for their lowest first-innings total against South Africa in ODIs. On the other hand, South African spinner Keshav Maharaj achieved the best bowling figures for a Proteas spinner in ODIs, taking 4 wickets for 22 runs in just 5.3 overs. This surpassed Imran Tahir’s 4 for 38 against England in the 2011 World Cup.
Note For Readers:
The CEO handles all legal and staff issues. Claiming human help before the first hearing isn't part of our rules.
Our system uses humans and AI, including freelance journalists, editors, and reporters.
The CEO can confirm if your issue involves a person or AI.
by 
