South Africa down England in rain shortened match: 1st T20 (Cardiff)

South Africa took a 1–0 lead in the T20I series after beating England by 14 runs in a rain-hit opener at Cardiff.

Persistent showers reduced the match first to nine overs a side, then to just five overs for England’s chase under DLS.

Batting first, South Africa blasted 97 for 5 in 7.5 overs with quick runs from Aiden Markram, Dewald Brevis and Donovan Ferreira.

England were set a target of 69 in five overs but managed only 54 for 5, with Jos Buttler’s brisk 25 off 11 the only resistance as Marco Jansen and Corbin Bosch struck with the ball.

England captain Harry Brook labelled the chaotic conditions a “shambles,” while South Africa celebrated a gritty win to open the series.

South Africa 97 for 5 (7.5 overs) beat England 54 for 5 (5 overs) by 14 runs via DLS method.

Sept 2025