Bethell, Root and Archer star in England's record 342-run win vs South Africa

England ended their ODI series against South Africa with a performance for the ages, registering the largest victory in men’s ODI history. At Southampton, the Harry Brook-led produced a complete display, beating the visitors by a staggering 342 runs.

The record-breaking margin toppled the previous best set by India after beating Sri Lanka by 317 runs in 2023. After defeats at Lord’s and The Oval, England had already lost the series 2-0, but the hosts saved their best for last. A maiden century for rising star Jacob Bethell, a vintage knock from Joe Root, and explosive finishing from Jos Buttler powered England to 414 for five.

What followed was a ruthless bowling display led by Jofra Archer, which ultimately bundled South Africa out for just 72.

ENG vs SA, 3rd ODI: Highlights

Bethell arrives in style

The biggest talking point of the day was the breakthrough innings from Jacob Bethell. Just 21 years old, the left-hander struck his first international century, scoring 110 from 80 balls. Batting at No. 4, Bethell showed maturity beyond his age, mixing aggression with control. His three sixes against Keshav Maharaj highlighted his fearless intent, while his crisp cover drive to reach three figures confirmed his talent.

Bethell became the second-youngest Englishman to score a men’s ODI hundred, underlining his promise as a future star in the format.

Alongside him, Joe Root was at his reliable best. The former Test captain anchored the innings with 113 from 116 balls, his 19th ODI century. Root’s ability to rotate strike and find gaps allowed Bethell to flourish, and together they put on a 182-run stand that put England firmly on top.

If the partnership set the base, the experienced Jos Buttler made sure England finished with a flourish. His unbeaten 62 came off just 32 deliveries, including a 27-ball fifty full of ramps, scoops, and powerful drives. Buttler’s acceleration ensured England finished with a mammoth 414 for five, their fifth-highest score in ODIs.

South Africa had no answers. Their fielding was sloppy, they conceded 27 extras, and left-arm seamer Nandre Burger recorded the most expensive figures by a South African bowler in ODIs, going for 95 runs in his 10 overs.

Archer wreaks havoc

If England’s batting dominated the first half, the bowling made the result a foregone conclusion. Jofra Archer, playing with his full pace and rhythm, tore through South Africa’s top order. He finished with figures of 4 for 10, bowling at speeds touching 93mph and unsettling every batter he faced.

Brydon Carse added two wickets with sharp seam movement, while Adil Rashid cleaned up the tail with three scalps. South Africa never got going and were bowled out for just 72, narrowly avoiding their lowest-ever ODI total.