England Clinches Series-Levelling 146-Run Triumph Over South Africa in Record-Breaking T20 Clash

England delivered a stunning performance in the second T20 International against South Africa at Old Trafford, Manchester, on September 12, 2025, smashing multiple records en route to a resounding 146-run victory. This dominant display leveled the three-match series 1-1 and set the stage for a thrilling decider at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, on September 14.

The English openers Phil Salt and Jos Buttler ignited the innings, forging a massive 126-run partnership in just 7.6 overs. Salt was the star of the match, registering an unbeaten 141 runs, which surpassed his own previous highest England T20I score to become the highest individual T20 score for England. He also recorded the fastest century by an English batsman, reaching 100 in just 39 balls. Buttler complemented this with a powerful 83 runs, helping England post a colossal 304 for 2 — their highest T20I total and the third-highest ever in the format worldwide.

England’s boundary-hitting was exceptional, with 30 fours and 18 sixes contributing 228 runs, accounting for 75% of the team’s total score. Jacob Bethell and Harry Brook added valuable quick runs and momentum late in the innings, further consolidating England’s commanding position.

In response, South Africa struggled to contain the English firepower. Their bowling attack, including Kagiso Rabada, Lizaad Williams, and Marco Jansen, all returning from injury, conceded runs heavily. Rabada’s spells included four no-balls and yielded 70 runs, one of the most expensive in T20I history. South Africa managed only 158 runs before being bowled out in 16.1 overs, marking their heaviest defeat by runs in T20 Internationals.

Aiden Markram top-scored for the Proteas with 41 runs off 20 balls, but the target proved beyond reach given the massive deficit. England’s bowlers ensured persistent pressure, wrapping up the innings well ahead of the 20-over mark.

This emphatic victory not only marks England's biggest win by runs in T20 internationals but also highlighted their rising prowess ahead of the T20 World Cup next year. England captain Harry Brook expressed confidence in his team’s batting depth and their readiness for crucial must-win matches moving forward.

The series now moves into a deciding third match at Trent Bridge, promising an exciting conclusion to this high-profile contest.