After posting a solid 298 on the board, the South African bowlers overcame a scratchy start to stage a resolute comeback and inflict defeat for England. | ✍️ Abhai Sawkar

Rassie van der Dussen starred with a well-compiled 111 – his 4th century in ODIs. While the hosts didn’t have the swift finish that they were hoping for, they still ended up with a total that was more than competitive, thanks to a handy half-century from David Miller as well as a sprightly opening stand.

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Jason Roy and Dawid Malan began the chase positively, punishing Rabada and Parnell whenever they erred in line or length. The introduction of Shamsi continued to feed their strengths, as both batters reached their half-centuries.

However, while it seemed like England were coasting their way to a sizable advantage, Sisanda Magala provided the breakthrough the Proteas were ever so desperate for. Malan hit one straight to Bavuma at mid-off, and that would temporarily open the floodgates.

Ben Duckett and Harry Brook both came and went cheaply, as Magala added another wicket to his tally, and Anrich Nortje came to the party with his ominous pace.

Despite the mid-innings trouble, Jason Roy raced his way to a 79-ball century. He was in search of form for the better part of last year, and this was knock was a sigh of relief for the hard-hitting right-hander.

But the joy was short-lived, as he pulled one straight to deep midwicket. This was the dismissal that would rekindle the hopes for the Proteas. Moeen Ali was the next to head back, as the eagerness to play the big shots got the better of him.

When Jos Buttler edged one behind off Nortje in the 37th over, the tables began to turn. Sam Curran and David Willey got three boundaries in an over, but Willey was the next to go. Another ill-advised swipe provided a straightforward catch.

It was a dramatic finish, as Nortje almost dismissed Adil Rashid, but a front-foot no-ball denied him the wicket. Sam Curran had to steer the chase, but after he nicked off Rabada, South Africa were in pole position.

Nortje got his fourth wicket when he dismissed Archer, and Shamsi returned to claim the last wicket after going for extra runs in his earlier spell.

This victory is priceless for the hosts, as there were major question marks as to whether they’d be able to qualify. In addition, it’s a much-needed confidence boost, even though there is very noticeable room for improvement.

SA 298/7 in 50 overs (van der Dussen 111, Miller 53 – Curran 9-0-35-3)
ENG 271 in 44.2 overs (Roy 113, Malan 59 – Nortje 10-0-62-4, Magala 9-0-46-3)