ENG vs SA 2025: Top 3 player battles to watch out for in 1st ODI

England will face South Africa in the first ODI of the three-match series on Tuesday, September 2, at Headingley in Leeds. South Africa last played an ODI series against Australia in August and won the three-match series by 2-1. On the other hand, England defeated the West Indies by 3-0 in May-June. 

Here are the top three player battles to watch out for in England vs South Africa, 1st ODI:

1. Joe Root vs Kagiso Rabada:

Joe Root and Kagiso Rabada have faced each other in nine ODI matches. Root has made 61 runs off 94 deliveries against Rabada in ODIs while he has been dismissed by the pacer only once in ODIs, during the ODI World Cup in 2019. Root has not hit a six against Rabada in ODIs

2. Harry Brook vs Keshav Maharaj:

Harry Brook has faced Keshav Maharaj in two ODI matches so far and has made 21 runs off 19 deliveries. Maharaj dismissed Brook in the match during the Champions Trophy this year.

3. Jos Buttler vs Lungi Ngidi:

Jos Buttler has made 40 runs off 45 deliveries against Lungi Ngidi in four ODIs so far. Nigidi dismissed Buttler for the first time during the World Cup in 2019 and Champions Trophy 2025.

FAQs

Q1: Who are the key batters for England vs South Africa in the 1st ODI?

A1: Joe Root and Temba Bavuma are the main run-scorers to watch for in this game.

Q2: Which all-rounders can impact England vs South Africa in the 1st ODI?

A2: Wiaan Mulder and Will Jacks are the key all-rounders who can influence the match with both bat and ball.

Q3: Who are the main wicket-takers for South Africa?

A3: Keshav Maharaj and Lungi Ngidi are among the important bowlers to watch in this match.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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