South Africa Secures Second-Biggest ODI Win Over England at Leeds

South Africa secured a commanding seven-wicket victory against England in the first ODI at Headingley, Leeds, with a dominant bowling and batting display. Keshav Maharaj led the bowling effort with figures of 4-22, helping to bundle England out for a low total of 131 runs, while Aiden Markram's explosive 86 off 55 balls, supported by Ryan Rickelton's unbeaten 31, anchored a strong 121-run opening partnership in the chase. Despite early promise from England's Jamie Smith, who scored 54, the team collapsed after 82-2, losing their last eight wickets for just 49 runs amid poor shot selections. South Africa's win marked their second-biggest ODI victory over England in terms of balls remaining, chasing the target comfortably in 20.5 overs. The Proteas came close to matching India's all-time record for a ten-wicket victory in England but lost three wickets late in the innings, finishing with seven wickets in hand. The series will continue with the second ODI at Lord's, followed by three Twenty20 Internationals starting on September 10.