100 overs of cricket, with the series level at 1-1, the game for England and South Africa was a dead rubber and there was only one option for either side – win the match and answer the critiques. But sadly nature had some other plans.
In a series where the team batting first had a winning percentage of 100%, the South African captain didn’t hesitate in electing to bat after winning the toss. Both teams walked into the field unchanged for the series decider.
South Africa started their innings briskly scoring 24 runs in the first 5 overs. England drew first blood when Janneman Malan carelessly drived at a wide on delivery by David Willey only to be caught by Jason Roy at backward point.
Seeing an opening, Buttler introduced spin in the 6th over itself in hope of dismissing an out-of-form Quinton de Kock who of late is known to give up on promising starts.
Resilence by De Kock
De Kock changed his approach to aggressive in the 7th over, scoring 13 runs on Willey. He looked to have found his touch back as he looked very comfortable to pace on the ball.
He brought his 29th ODI fifty in the 14th over when punished by a short and wide delivery by Adil Rashid to extra cover collecting 4 runs in the process.
The fifty came rather quickly for De Kock(39 balls). Just when South Africa was building to post a massive total, Van der Dussen holed out to deep square for 23, ending the 75-run stand between the duo.
Rain stops play
The match was first stopped due to rain in the 20th over. Covers were put on as heavy rain drizzed in Leeds. When play resumed, it was reduced to a 45-over game. De Kock continued his onslaught and played with responsibility enroute to his 92.
Series decider abandoned due to rain
Just as De Kock was nearing his hundred, the rain again came on and this time it continued for a longer duration, leading to the match being called off.
Both the captains shared the trophy and Rassie Van der Dussen was awarded the man of the series.
What’s next for England and South Africa now?
The action shifts to the shorter format of the game as both sides collide on 27th July at Bristol for the first T20I. England are seeking to win their first series after Morgan’s exit.
The current performance of the team hasn’t matched the standards set by England in the last 6-7 years. There’s a lot to improve for the Englishmen with the most vital being Buttler back in form.
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