South Africa edged out England by 14 runs via the DLS method in the rain-hit opening T20I at Cardiff on Wednesday night. What began as a nine-over-per-side slugfest turned into a farcical contest of just 12.5 overs overall, after multiple stoppages caused by persistent showers.
The match, initially delayed by two hours and 20 minutes, was reduced from a standard 40-over clash to a chaotic sprint that hardly resembled a proper international fixture.
Markram and Ferreira lift Proteas
South Africa managed 97/5 in 7.5 overs, thanks to a quick-fire 28 off 14 balls from skipper Aiden Markram and a crucial 25 not out off 11 by Donovan Ferreira, before yet another downpour halted proceedings.England were then set a revised target of 69 runs in five overs under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method.
England Stumble in Steep Chase
The hosts’ hopes evaporated almost immediately. Phil Salt fell for a golden duck, followed quickly by Jacob Bethell (7) and skipper Harry Brook (0 off 3), leaving England reeling at 28/3 inside three overs. Brief resistance came from Jos Buttler (25), but back-to-back wickets of Buttler and Tom Banton sealed England’s fate. They limped to 54/5 in five overs, falling 14 runs short of victory.
Can’t read too much into it… very wet in patches, didn’t execute as we could. The big dogs above me make the decisions [about playability].
South Africa skipper Aiden Markram also called it ‘madness’, but praised his side’s adaptability. He also revealed concern over spinner Keshav Maharaj, who suffered a groin injury before the match.
It was a hurry-up-and-wait sort of day. You need one or two cameos to get a good score. Kesh was going to play but tweaked his groin. Marco [Jansen] brought great energy and used the bounce well.
Ferreira shines, wins Man of the Match
Donovan Ferreira was named Man of the Match for his vital cameo and said he relished the chaotic contest: "Things can go any way in such games. Nice to do it for your country, to make an impact in a shortened game. I just watch the ball and express myself — the coach gives me that freedom."
Brief Scores: South Africa 97/5 in 7.5 overs (Aiden Markram 28, Donovan Ferreira 25*; Luke Wood 2-22) England 54/5 in 5 overs (Jos Buttler 25; Marco Jansen 2-17, Corbin Bosch 2-20). South Africa won by 14 runs (DLS method)
