England and South Africa kick off a 3-match ODI series at Headingley, Leeds, as both teams gear up for the next ODI World Cup. England enters with momentum after snapping a seven-match losing streak earlier in the year and a recent winning run in the Caribbean. South Africa is coming off a successful home series against Australia and looks to continue that form. Both sides feature a blend of experienced campaigners and exciting youngsters, setting up a competitive opening contest.
ENG vs RSA Win Probability Win Probability: 1st ODI Match
ENG vs RSA Batting Tips: 1st ODI Match
England vs South Africa 1st ODI Match Details
| Match | South Africa tour of England 2025 – 1st ODI |
| Date | Tuesday, September 2, 2025 |
| Time | 05:30 PM (IST), 01:00 PM (Local) |
| Venue | Headingley, Leeds |
| Live Streaming (TV) | Sony Sports Network |
| Live Streaming (Mobile) | Fancode & Sony Sports Network |
ENG vs RSA Match Prediction & Analysis (Who Will Win?)
England’s return to winning ways and strong home record at Headingley put them slightly ahead in this clash. Joe Root’s in-form batting and his consistent track record at this venue add confidence to England’s top order. South Africa has a potent pace attack led by Lungi Ngidi, and a balanced batting lineup featuring seasoned players like Temba Bavuma and Aiden Markram. The match promises to be close, but England’s familiarity with the conditions and momentum suggest they are the favorites to take the first ODI.
England vs South Africa Head to Head (ODIs)
| Total Match Played | 71 |
| ENG Won | 30 |
| RSA Won | 35 |
| Draw/No Result/Tie | 06 |
ENG vs RSA Teams Preview (Top Players to Bet)
England
England have blended youth and experience well, with opening duties likely to be handled by Jamie Smith and Ben Duckett, who proved their effectiveness in the West Indies. Joe Root remains a dependable backbone in the middle order, joined by captain Harry Brook and seasoned wicketkeeper Jos Buttler. The bowling attack has seen changes with young fast bowler Sonny Baker making his ODI debut alongside Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse. The presence of leg-spinner Adil Rashid enhances England’s variety.
ENG Probable Playing XI-
Jamie Smith, Ben Duckett, Jos Buttler (WK), Joe Root, Harry Brook (C), Jacob Bethell, Will Jacks, Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse, Adil Rashid, Saqib Mahmood.
ENG Top Player to bet on- Joe Root & Will Jacks.
South Africa
South Africa arrives full of confidence after clinching a series win against Australia. Temba Bavuma leads a squad featuring key batsmen like Aiden Markram and talented youngsters Tony de Zorzi, Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, and Matthew Breetzke. Their pace department is formidable, boasting Lungi Ngidi and Kagiso Rabada, with Keshav Maharaj strengthening the spin options. Their mix of experience and youth provides balance and makes them tough opponents in English conditions.
RSA Probable Playing XI-
Temba Bavuma (C), Dewald Brevis, Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs (WK), Matthew Breetzke, Ryan Rickleton, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Nandre Burger, Keshav Maharaj.
RSA Top Player to bet on- Lungi Ngidi & Temba Bavuma.
ENG vs RSA Weather & Pitch Report
The Headingley pitch offers a balanced contest for batters and bowlers. Early movement off a grassed surface aids seamers, particularly in the first few overs, while batting becomes easier as the innings progresses. Teams batting first aim to score between 280-290 runs, with an average first-innings score around 210. Weather is expected to be cloudy and cool with temperatures under 20°C, but no rain is forecast.
England vs South Africa Fantasy Teams
*Fantasy 11 suggestions are applicable for users from outside India only, considering the new Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025.
- Wicket-keeper- Jos Buttler, Tristan Stubbs
- Batter- Joe Root (C), Harry Brook, Aiden Markram, Temba Bavuma
- All-rounder- Will Jacks (VC), Keshav Maharaj
- Bowler- Jofra Archer, Lungi Ngidi, Saqib Mahmood
Pro Tip- Always check your fantasy team after the final playing elevens are announced, usually around 30 minutes before the game starts. After 10:30 PM (IST), verify your team to ensure it matches the official lineup.
Disclaimer– This prediction and fantasy tips are for entertainment purposes only, exclusively for users outside India, respecting the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. We do not encourage or facilitate illegal activities or violations of Indian law.
