England produced a historic performance in Southampton as 21-year-old Jacob Bethell struck his long-awaited maiden international century and Jofra Archer unleashed a fiery spell to guide England to a record 342-run victory over South Africa in the third one-day international. Despite the series already being lost, this match proved to be a statement of intent and a much-needed confidence boost for England in the 50-over format.
Bethell, long seen as one of England’s brightest batting prospects, showcased his talent with a commanding 110 from just 82 deliveries. His innings, filled with elegance and aggression, featured 16 boundaries and three towering sixes, making him England’s second-youngest ODI centurion after David Gower. He shared a stunning 182-run stand with Joe Root, who anchored the innings with a composed 100 from 96 balls. Their partnership laid the platform for England’s biggest home total in seven years, finishing at a massive 414-5. Jos Buttler then added fireworks at the back end, smashing an unbeaten 62 from 32 balls to ensure England’s dominance.
While Bethell’s breakthrough innings was the highlight, it was Archer’s hostile opening spell that completely dismantled the Proteas. Bowling with raw pace that touched 93mph, Archer ripped through South Africa’s top order, reducing them to 7-4 and then 24-6. His figures of 4-18 were a reminder of his world-class ability, while Adil Rashid also chipped in with 3-13. South Africa never recovered from the early collapse, eventually folding for just 72 in 20.5 overs. With captain Temba Bavuma unable to bat due to injury, the match ended in England’s favor by the largest margin in men’s ODI history in terms of runs.
South Africa, who had already clinched the series with wins at Headingley and Lord’s, were a shadow of their earlier form. Their fielding was sloppy, with crucial dropped catches including Bethell on 44, while their bowlers leaked 19 wides. Nandre Burger endured a nightmare with figures of 0-95, the worst ever for a South African in ODIs, while debutant Codi Yusef conceded 80 runs without a wicket.
For England, this resounding victory brought much-needed relief after recent struggles in the 50-over game. Bethell, who admitted earlier in the week that he regretted playing so little cricket this summer, appeared to find his rhythm again, building on a promising 58 at Lord’s. His calm yet dominant approach against the world’s number-one spinner, Keshav Maharaj, signaled a maturity beyond his years. The manner in which he reached his century, driving elegantly through the covers before raising his arms to a standing ovation, hinted at the dawn of a new era for England’s batting lineup.
After the game, Bethell described the moment as “unbelievable,” emphasizing that his century was not about silencing critics but fulfilling his own goals. Archer, named player of the match, was equally delighted to play three matches in a row without fitness issues, suggesting his comeback is on track. Meanwhile, South Africa captain Temba Bavuma admitted his side was “poor in all departments” and had no answer to England’s intensity.
This result may not change the outcome of the series, but it has reignited optimism in England’s camp ahead of the upcoming T20 series in Cardiff. With Bethell’s star rising and Archer looking sharp, England fans will be hoping this emphatic win marks the beginning of a resurgence in their white-ball dominance.
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