For the second consecutive series, South Africa collapsed in a dead rubber match, suffering a record-breaking 342-run loss to England in the final ODI.
This defeat marked the heaviest margin ever recorded in ODI history, highlighting a humiliating performance by the Proteas. Just as they did in the final match against Australia last month—after securing the series 2-0—South Africa once again fell apart, this time in even more dismal fashion.
Chasing a daunting target of 415, the team was dismissed for just 72 runs, their second-lowest total in ODI history after being bowled out for 69 against Australia in 1993. Skipper Temba Bavuma missed the match due to a calf injury sustained while fielding.
Among the top six batters, only Tristan Stubbs reached double digits with 10 runs. All-rounder Corbin Bosch (20) and spinner Keshav Maharaj (17) were the top scorers, though their efforts came far too late to change the outcome.
England’s bowlers dominated, with Jofra Archer leading the attack by taking 4 wickets for just 18 runs.
Earlier, after being sent in to bat, England piled on the runs with centuries from Joe Root (100) and Jacob Bethell (110), while Jamie Smith and Jos Buttler each added 62 runs. Their total of 414/5 was England’s highest ever against South Africa in ODIs, leaving the Proteas with an insurmountable task and ultimately exposed.
Third ODI, Southampton
England: 414/5 (Bethell 110, Root 100, Buttler 62*, Smith 62, Bosch 2/79, Maharaj 2/61)
South Africa: 72 all out (Bosch 20, Archer 4/18, Rashid 3/13, Carse 2/33)
England won by 342 runs, SA win the series 2-1
