England dominate with centuries in Southampton
The England vs South Africa ODI 2025 clash in Southampton turned into a historic one-sided affair. Jacob Bethell scored his maiden professional hundred, smashing 110 from 82 balls. Alongside him, Joe Root anchored the innings with a fluent 100, guiding England to a massive 414 for 5. Their 182-run partnership created the perfect base for a record-breaking total.
Bethell shines as Root adds class
At just 21, Bethell became the second-youngest England batter to hit an ODI century. His aggressive stroke play included powerful sixes and crisp boundaries. Root, meanwhile, controlled the tempo with his classic style, collecting singles and rotating strike to frustrate South Africa. Jamie Smith added 62, while Jos Buttler’s unbeaten 62 off 32 balls ensured the scoreboard kept racing.
JACOB BETHELL 💥
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) September 7, 2025
Slams a superb 110 runs against South Africa in the 3rd ODI! What a knock from the youngster! 👏🔥
📸 Getty #JacobBethell #ENGvSA #ODI #Cricket #GettyImages #YoungTalent #Century pic.twitter.com/97Ad5X3rHM
Archer and Rashid destroy South Africa
South Africa’s chase in the England vs South Africa ODI 2025 never gained momentum. Jofra Archer tore through the top order, taking 4 for 18 in a fiery seven-over spell. His raw pace rattled the batters, while Adil Rashid cleaned up the tail with 3 for 13. Brydon Carse also struck twice, leaving South Africa bowled out for just 72.
Heaviest ODI defeat for South Africa
This humiliating result saw South Africa lose by 342 runs, their heaviest defeat in men’s ODIs. Even with Temba Bavuma unavailable to bat due to injury, the batting effort collapsed without resistance. Dropped catches and sloppy fielding compounded the misery, while bowlers conceded 27 extras, including 19 wides.
Jamie Smith departs after a solid 62 off 48 balls in the 3rd ODI vs South Africa 💪👏
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) September 7, 2025
📸 Getty #JamieSmith #ENGvsSA #ODI #CricketUpdates #GettyImages pic.twitter.com/lKzmicHLkh
England’s statement win in dead rubber
Although the series had already been secured by South Africa, the England vs South Africa ODI 2025 finale highlighted England’s white-ball depth. Bethell’s breakthrough century, Root’s consistency, and Archer’s fiery return reminded fans of the team’s strength ahead of future tours. South Africa, however, will need major improvements after this crushing record defeat.
