England vs South Africa Preview & Prediction | First One-Day International

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England are back in white ball action as they take on South Africa in this first ODI of the month.

Date/time:

Venue: Headingley, Leeds, England

Weather: Cloudy but should remain high with temperatures reaching 19c.

How to watch: UK – Sky Sports / USA – Willow TV

England vs South Africa prediction

England have a stern challenge on their hands in this ODI series when taking into this account how impressive South Africa were in Australia, where they took two of a three-match series back in August. On paper though, England’s batting line-up is very strong with a full-strength side selected. Jofra Archer is included on the bowling front, whilst there is also a debut for Hampshire pacer Sonny Baker.

South Africa’s middle-order has the power to launch boundaries at will, but on a ground such as Headingley against fast bowlers capable of regularly bowling at 90mph+, that will be easier said than done. Then on the flip-side, you have players like Brook and Joe Root, who arrive for England in good form following the Hundred tournament, which saw both accumulate a healthy number of runs.

The speed of England’s bowling attack, combined with the nous of spinner Adil Rashid on his home ground should see the hosts keep the dangerous Proteas batting line-up in check and lay the foundations for an England victory.

England vs South Africa tip: England to win