In a stunning display of power and precision, England made history on a night of exceptional batting as they posted a remarkable 304/2 against South Africa in the second T20I at Old Trafford in Manchester. The victory, which saw the hosts complete a comfortable 146-run win, marked England’s first T20I score of over 300 against a full-member team, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter.
The innings was led by a sensational performance from Phil Salt, who became the highest individual scorer in T20I history with an unbeaten 141 off 60 balls. Salt’s innings was a masterclass in technique and aggression, as he sliced over backward point for four and laid into South Africa’s bowling with a barrage of boundaries and a six. His innings was a testament to his ability to dominate the opposition, and his contribution was instrumental in setting the stage for a record-breaking total.
Complementing Salt’s brilliance was Jos Buttler, who opened the batting with a fiery 83 off 30 balls. Buttler’s explosive start saw him unleash a barrage of sixes and fours, including a stunning 6, 4, 4, 4 in the first over against Kagiso Rabada. His aggressive approach and clinical hitting set the tone for the innings, and his performance was a key factor in England’s ability to post a record total.
The hosts reached 100 runs in just 5.5 overs, the second fastest in T20I history against a full-member team, showcasing their intent and firepower from the very first ball. The pace of the innings was matched only by the intensity of the batting, as England’s batters displayed a level of aggression and skill that was hard to match.
In reply, South Africa were bowled out for 158, a total that was well below their target and a testament to England’s dominance. The hosts’ ability to control the game and maintain their momentum throughout the innings was a key factor in their victory.
This win not only marks a significant milestone in England’s T20I history but also highlights the team’s growing strength and depth in the batting department. With players like Salt and Buttler leading the charge, England is clearly on the path to becoming a dominant force in the T20 format. The performance against South Africa was a clear indication of the team’s potential, and with continued development, England is poised to make a lasting impact on the global cricket stage.