The Proteas and England have a short turnaround and play in the 2nd T20 at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff on Thursday. We have a look at the game from a betting angle.
South Africa won the toss and elected to field first in Bristol, but they turned in a scrappy performance in the field and conceded 234 for 6 on the very small ground with England hitting a monstrous 20 sixes.
Jonny Bairstow was once again the star with the bat scoring 90 off 53 balls although he certainly enjoyed plenty of good fortune with catches been put down by the Proteas. There was also a lightning quick 50 from Moeen Ali who was dismissed for 52 at a strike rate of 288 and up front Jos Buttler scored 22 off just 7 balls to get the innings off to a fast start.
Lungi Ngidi was the stand out bowler for the Proteas getting 5 for 39 in his 4 overs and his changes of pace certainly gave the English batsmen a few things to think about.
The Proteas chase was always in trouble after the early loss of de Kock and Rossouw and in the end it was the youngster, Tristan Stubbs who gave hope with a brilliant 72 off just 28 balls including 8 sixes. It was not enough though and South Africa ended on 193 for 8. Topley was once again superb at the start of the innings and ended with 2 for 29 off his 4 overs while the top bowler award as far as the bookmakers are concerned went to Gleeson with his 3 for 51 off 4 overs.
England are now 9/20 to win this Series and 5/10 to win the match in Cardiff and wrap things up there and then.
BETTING – Click here to bet
England 5/10
South Africa 13/8
SELECTION:
South Africa win at 13/8
The Proteas performance in Bristol was poor, but I am expecting quite a few personnel changes and a much more disciplined effort. They have appeared to have uncovered a gem in Stubbs and I am backing them to level the Series and take us into a decider on Sunday.
Note: All prices correct at the time of writing but are subject to change
