The second ODI between England and South Africa will be played on Thursday, 4 September 2025 , at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground . South africa already leading the three match series
1-0, this contest is a must win for England if they hope to keep series alive.
England’s batting collapses in the first ODI highlighted their inconsistency. Their total of 131 all out despite Jamie Smith composed 54 against a clinical South African attack. Established batters like Joe Root, Ben Duckett and Harry Brook failed to deliver, exposing the fragility of England’s top order.
South Africa, on the other hand, were clinical in the first game. Keshav Maharaj delivered a sensational spell, taking 4 wickets for 22 runs, and dismantled England’s middle order with sharp spin and accuracy. His effort earned him the Player of the Match award.
With the bat, Aiden Markram (86 off 55) played an outstanding innings, guiding the South Africa to a comfortable seven-wicket victory. He received solid support from Ryan Rickelton, while the rest of the batting unit hardly needed to break a sweat. South Africa’s composure, discipline, and balance made them look like the stronger side by a considerable margin.
The only setback is the injury to Tony de Zorzi, who has been ruled out of the series with a hamstring issue. Fortunately, Matthew Breetzke is available again, offering another batting option. South Africa may also consider recalling Kagiso Rabada for this match, providing their pace attack with extra bite.
Head to Head
| Total Matches Played | 72 |
| South Africa wins | 36 |
| England wins | 30 |
| Tie | 1 |
| No Results | 5 |
Key Player To Watch
Joe Root
England’s batting backbone, Root’s experience and calmness are vital after the team’s collapse in the first ODI. At his home ground, Lord’s, Root will be expected to anchor the innings and provide stability against South Africa’s disciplined attack.
Keshav Maharaj
The left-arm spinner was unplayable in Headingley, finishing with 4/22. On a Lord’s surface that tends to slow down later in the game, Maharaj’s ability to control runs and break partnerships could again decide the match.
Harry Brook
A naturally attacking batter, Brook has the capability to counterattack and change the momentum. England’s middle order has struggled, and Brook’s role in providing quick runs will be crucial if they want to post or chase a big total.
Pitch Report
Lord’s is often described as a venue where batting first brings success. The surface usually offers good bounce and carry early on, helping pacers exploit seam and swing movement. However, as the match progresses, the pitch tends to slow down, making stroke-making difficult and giving spinners more assistance.
Average First Innings Score: Around 280–290 runs.
Chasing Record: Teams batting second have struggled, with nine of the last ten results favoring sides defending a total.
Captains winning the toss are therefore expected to bat first, aiming to put scoreboard pressure on the opposition.
England will be desperate to bounce back, but South Africa currently look more settled and confident. The South Africa mix of spin, pace, and aggressive batting gives them the edge, especially if they bat first. England must produce something extraordinary to level the series, but based on form and momentum, South Africa are favorites to win the second ODI and seal the series 2–0.
Lord’s has often been a stage for dramatic turnarounds. If England’s senior batters finally click and their bowlers strike early, the hosts could spring a surprise.