Tammy Beaumont’s Secures Series Win for England Against South Africa

England triumphed over South Africa in a rain-affected thriller at Potchefstroom, chasing down a challenging DLS-adjusted target of 152 in just 19 overs to claim the ODI series 2-1. Tammy Beaumont’s masterclass, an unbeaten 65 from 46 balls, anchored England’s six-wicket victory under the floodlights, with four overs to spare.

Rain and lightning delayed the match for three hours, and the situation worsened when Kate Cross suffered a back spasm in the very first over, forcing her off the field. Despite these setbacks, England showed resilience after being reduced to 25 for 3 by a fiery spell from Marizanne Kapp, who claimed 3 for 24, including the key dismissals of Maia Bouchier, Nat Sciver-Brunt, and Heather Knight.

Beaumont, however, remained unflustered and rebuilt the innings alongside Amy Jones, who scored an unbeaten 49 off 36 balls. The pair added a crucial 90 runs off 63 deliveries for the fifth wicket, neutralizing Kapp’s threat and ensuring a comfortable finish. Earlier, Danni Wyatt-Hodge contributed a brisk 22 from 16 balls to keep England in the game during a tricky phase.

England had earlier restricted South Africa to 233 for 8 in 50 overs after electing to bowl first. Laura Wolvaardt, the ICC’s No. 1-ranked ODI batter, led South Africa with a classy 61 off 68 balls, showcasing her signature cover drives. However, England’s bowlers, led by Sophie Ecclestone and Alice Capsey, capitalised on lapses in South Africa’s middle order.

Wolvaardt’s dismissal, lbw to Ecclestone, triggered a collapse as Nadine de Klerk and Annerie Dercksen fell cheaply, leaving South Africa at 156 for 5. Despite a late partnership between Mieke de Ridder and Nonkululeko Mlaba, who added 32 runs for the ninth wicket, South Africa’s total proved insufficient against England’s determined chase.

With this win, England secured the ODI series and wrapped up the multi-format tour with an overall series victory, having already swept the T20I leg 3-0. Beaumont’s calm under pressure, combined with Jones’ steady support, highlighted England’s strength in adapting to challenging conditions and set the stage for the upcoming Test in Bloemfontein.