England delivered a historic thrashing to South Africa in the third ODI, securing a monumental 342-run victory, the largest win margin ever recorded in the format when batting first. The Proteas crumbled for a mere 72 runs in 20.5 overs while chasing a challenging target of 415 in Southampton, narrowly avoiding their lowest ODI score of 69, set against Australia in 1993.
England’s dominant performance was spearheaded by a brilliant spell from Jofra Archer and a stunning maiden century from Jacob Bethell. Archer spearheaded the bowling attack, claiming 4 wickets for 18 runs in a clinical nine-over spell, while Bethell showcased his batting prowess with a blistering 110 off 82 balls, which included 13 boundaries and 3 sixes.
The victory eclipsed India’s previous record of 317 runs against Sri Lanka in 2023 and comfortably surpassed England’s own previous best of 242 runs against Australia in 2018 at Trent Bridge. England, batting first, amassed a massive 414 for 5, their fifth-highest ODI score ever. Joe Root contributed a masterful 100, complemented by strong knocks from Jos Buttler (62*), Jamie Smith (62), and Bethell, who capitalized on his promotion to No. 4, building on his earlier score of 58 at Lord’s.
The Proteas’ batting collapsed swiftly, with Archer’s pace and bounce dismantling the top order and reducing South Africa to 18 for 5. Adil Rashid contributed with a three-wicket haul to conclude the match. Despite losing the initial two matches, England saved the series in style. This was another milestone for Bethell, who is set to become England’s youngest-ever ODI captain in the upcoming series against Ireland. England’s performance underscored their dominance and depth, setting the stage for the Ashes later in the year.