The T20I series between England and South Africa shifts to The Rose Bowl, Southampton, for the 2nd T20I after a rain-curtailed thriller in Cardiff. South Africa held their nerve to win by 14 runs (DLS method) in the 1st T20I, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Player of the Match Donovan Ferreira’s explosive unbeaten 25 off 11 balls, along with Aiden Markram’s steady 28 and Dewald Brevis’ 23, powered South Africa to 97/5 in just 7.5 overs. England, chasing a DLS target of 69 in 5 overs, fell short at 54/5 despite Jos Buttler’s quickfire 25 from 11 balls. With the Proteas ahead, England must now win to keep the series alive.
Live Streaming Info
Fans can watch England vs South Africa live on Sony LIV (India), PTV Sports and Tamasha (Pakistan), Willow TV (USA & Canada), and TNT Sports via Discovery+ (UK). Match Start Time: 5:30 PM IST | 12:00 PM GMT | 5:00 PM PST
Team Analysis
England came into the series as slight favorites but were outplayed in the opening encounter. Jos Buttler was the lone bright spot with his rapid 25 from 11 balls, showing his ability to keep up with a steep required rate. However, the lack of support from the rest of the top order hurt England badly. Will Jacks and Ben Duckett will need to shoulder responsibility alongside Harry Brook, who is still adapting to leadership duties. Jamie Smith’s role as a finisher also needs definition if England are to post or chase competitive totals.
On the bowling front, Luke Wood (2/22) showed encouraging signs with the new ball, and Sam Curran’s variations (1/11) make him a vital weapon in the middle overs. Jamie Overton adds pace and bounce, but the trio struggled once South Africa counterattacked. England’s death bowling remains their biggest concern, as they leaked boundaries under pressure in Cardiff. Fielding was below par by their usual standards, with lapses in the outfield handing South Africa extra runs — something they cannot afford again.
The Proteas displayed a near-perfect blend of composure and explosiveness in Cardiff. Captain Aiden Markram led with a steady 28 off 14, ensuring stability after early strikes. Donovan Ferreira was the standout, smashing 25* from just 11 balls, turning the tide with fearless hitting that earned him the Player of the Match award. Dewald Brevis’ cameo of 23 highlighted the squad’s fearless batting depth, while the experienced David Miller and Tristan Stubbs are yet to fully unleash their firepower — a worrying sign for England if they click in Southampton.
Bowling, traditionally South Africa’s strength, once again delivered under pressure. Marco Jansen’s 2/18 showcased his growing reputation as a match-winner, while Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi provided incisive spells to squeeze England’s middle order. Keshav Maharaj’s role becomes even more crucial at The Rose Bowl, where conditions may allow him to tie down batters during the middle overs. The Proteas were sharp in the field, cutting off boundaries and creating pressure with their athleticism — a key difference-maker in a rain-curtailed game.
Match Insights and Conclusion
The 2nd T20I at The Rose Bowl is a must-win for England after falling behind in the series. Their top order needs to deliver consistently, while the bowling unit must find ways to contain South Africa’s aggressive stroke-makers. For South Africa, confidence is high, and another clinical performance can secure them the series with a game to spare.
With England desperate to bounce back and South Africa eager to wrap things up early, fans can expect another high-intensity contest filled with explosive batting, disciplined bowling, and tactical battles. If you want to watch ENG vs SA live, scroll above and click on the link provided.
