Introduction: A Thrilling Finale Awaits at The Rose Bowl
The England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025 is poised to be a blockbuster showdown at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, on September 7, 2025. With South Africa already clinching the series 2-0, England are battling to avoid a humiliating whitewash on home soil. Can Joe Root’s brilliance or Adil Rashid’s wizardry turn the tide, or will Matthew Breetzke and Keshav Maharaj lead the Proteas to a clean sweep?
This match preview, crafted for cricket fans on IPL Star, dives deep into team form, key players, pitch conditions, and more to get you ready for this high-stakes clash. Whether you’re a die-hard cricket enthusiast or a fantasy cricket player, this article has everything you need to know about the South Africa tour of England 2025. Let’s explore!
Match Details and Broadcast Information
The third ODI of the South Africa tour of England 2025 is a must-watch for cricket fans worldwide. Here are the key details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Series | South Africa Tour of England, 2025 |
| Match | 3rd ODI |
| Date | Sunday, September 7, 2025 |
| Time | 11:00 AM LOCAL (10:00 AM GMT, 3:30 PM IST) |
| Venue | The Rose Bowl, Southampton, England |
| Capacity | 6,500 (20,000 with temporary seating) |
| Broadcast (India) | TV: Sony Sports Ten 5, Sony Sports Ten 5 HD; Streaming: FanCode, SonyLIV |
| Broadcast (UK) | Sky Sports Cricket |
| Broadcast (South Africa) | SuperSport |
| Broadcast (USA) | Willow TV |
For fans searching for England vs South Africa 3rd ODI live streaming, SonyLIV and FanCode are your go-to platforms in India. Check local listings for other regions. Don’t miss the action—stream live or tune into Sony Sports Network for real-time updates!
Series Context: South Africa’s Dominance vs England’s Struggle
The South Africa tour of England 2025 has been a one-sided affair so far. South Africa secured convincing victories in the first two ODIs, showcasing their depth and aggression. Let’s recap:
- 1st ODI (Headingley, Leeds, Sep 2, 2025): South Africa won by 7 wickets with 175 balls to spare, bowling England out for 131 and chasing the target in just 20.5 overs, led by Aiden Markram’s explosive 86 off 55 balls.
- 2nd ODI (Lord’s, London, Sep 4, 2025): South Africa edged a thrilling 5-run victory, defending 330, with Matthew Breetzke’s 85 and Senuran Muthusamy’s tight final over proving decisive.
Recent Form
| Team | Last 5 ODIs | Key Insights |
|---|---|---|
| England | W W W L L | England’s form has been inconsistent, with a 3-0 series win against West Indies in 2025 but a dismal 31.8% win rate in ODIs since the 2023 World Cup. Their batting collapsed in the 1st ODI, and they fell agonizingly short in the 2nd. |
| South Africa | W W L W W | The Proteas are in top form, fresh off a series win in Australia. Their bowling, led by Keshav Maharaj, and batting depth, with contributions from Breetzke and Markram, make them formidable. |
England’s struggles stem from soft dismissals and a shaky middle order, while South Africa’s balanced attack and aggressive batting have given them the edge. Can England regroup for a consolation win, or will South Africa complete a 3-0 rout?
Head-to-Head Record: South Africa’s Recent Edge
The England vs South Africa head-to-head ODI record shows a closely contested rivalry, but South Africa have dominated recent encounters. Here’s a breakdown:
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Total ODIs | 71 |
| South Africa Wins | 35 |
| England Wins | 30 |
| Ties | 1 |
| No Results | 5 |
| In England | 29 matches (ENG: 17, SA: 9, NR: 3) |
Last 5 Head-to-Head Matches
| Date | Venue | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 04-Sep-2025 | Lord’s, London | South Africa won by 5 runs |
| 02-Sep-2025 | Headingley, Leeds | South Africa won by 7 wickets (175 balls remaining) |
| 01-Mar-2025 | Karachi | South Africa won by 7 wickets (125 balls remaining) |
| 21-Oct-2023 | Mumbai | South Africa won by 229 runs |
| 01-Feb-2023 | Kimberley | England won by 59 runs |
South Africa’s four consecutive wins, including a 229-run thrashing in the 2023 World Cup, underline their current dominance. England’s last victory over the Proteas was in February 2023, and they’ll need a monumental effort to reverse this trend at The Rose Bowl.
Venue Analysis: The Rose Bowl Pitch Report
The The Rose Bowl pitch report is crucial for understanding how the game might unfold. Located in Southampton, this venue offers a balanced surface with something for both batsmen and bowlers.
| Venue Stat | Details |
|---|---|
| Stadium | The Rose Bowl, Southampton |
| Ends | Pavilion End, Northern End |
| ODI Matches | 30 |
| Batting First Wins | 16 |
| Batting Second Wins | 12 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 262 |
| Highest Total | 373/3 (England vs Australia, 2018) |
| Lowest Total | 65/10 (USA vs Australia, 2004) |
- Pitch Characteristics: The Rose Bowl pitch typically assists seamers early due to swing-friendly conditions, especially under overcast skies. As the match progresses, it becomes batsman-friendly, favoring high scores. Spinners like Adil Rashid and Keshav Maharaj could be effective in the middle overs.
- Weather Forecast: September in Southampton can be unpredictable, with a 40% chance of showers on September 7, 2025. Overcast conditions may favor teams bowling first.
- Toss Strategy: Teams winning the toss might opt to bowl first to exploit early swing, especially if clouds persist.
The pitch suits players like Jofra Archer, who can generate pace and bounce, and Keshav Maharaj, whose control could stifle England’s middle order. Expect a competitive total of 260-280 if batting first.
Key Players to Watch in England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025
The outcome of the England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025 will hinge on standout performances from key players. Here are four players to watch, with their recent stats:
| Player | Team | Role | Recent Stats | Expected Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Root | England | Top-order Batter | 10 matches, 660 runs, 73.33 avg, 97.63 SR | Root’s consistency (61 in 2nd ODI) makes him England’s anchor. Can he deliver a match-winning ton? |
| Adil Rashid | England | Bowler | 10 matches, 22 wickets, 5.92 econ, 22.95 SR | Rashid’s leg-spin (3 wickets in 1st ODI) could target South Africa’s middle order. His variations are key. |
| Matthew Breetzke | South Africa | Batter | 5 matches, 463 runs, 92.6 avg, 104.51 SR | Breetzke’s 85 in the 2nd ODI was clutch. His form makes him a danger for England’s bowlers. |
| Keshav Maharaj | South Africa | Bowler | 9 matches, 15 wickets, 4.92 econ, 33.4 SR | The No. 1 ODI bowler’s 4/22 in the 1st ODI dismantled England. His control will be crucial. |
- Joe Root Stats: Root’s 660 runs in 10 ODIs reflect his reliability. Fans will hope he builds a big innings to stabilize England’s shaky batting.
- Adil Rashid Wickets: Rashid’s 22 wickets in 10 matches make him England’s X-factor. Can he outfox Aiden Markram?
- Matthew Breetzke Form: Breetzke’s 463 runs in 5 matches, including a match-defining 85, make him South Africa’s rising star.
- Keshav Maharaj Bowling: Maharaj’s economy (4.92) and wicket-taking ability make him a game-changer. Will he spin England out again?
These players are likely to shape the match’s narrative. For fantasy cricket players, Root and Maharaj are must-picks!
Squad Analysis and Possible XIs
England
Strengths:
- Potent pace attack with Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse, and Sonny Baker.
- Experienced batsmen like Joe Root and Jos Buttler, with Harry Brook’s aggression.
- Adil Rashid’s spin provides variety.
Weaknesses:
- Inconsistent batting, with collapses in both ODIs (e.g., 131 all out in 1st ODI).
- Middle order struggles under pressure (Ben Duckett’s 14 off 33 in 2nd ODI).
- Over-reliance on Root for stability.
Possible XI: Jamie Smith (wk), Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Harry Brook (c), Jos Buttler, Jacob Bethell, Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Sonny Baker.
South Africa
Strengths:
- Balanced bowling attack with Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, and Nandre Burger.
- Deep batting lineup, with contributions from Breetzke, Markram, and Tristan Stubbs.
- Allrounders like Wiaan Mulder and Corbin Bosch add versatility.
Weaknesses:
- Injury concerns: Kagiso Rabada’s fitness is uncertain, and Tony de Zorzi is ruled out for the series.
- Temba Bavuma may be rested to manage workload, testing leadership depth.
Possible XI: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Matthew Breetzke, Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis, Wiaan Mulder, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Nandre Burger, Lungi Ngidi, Senuran Muthusamy.
| Team | Key Players | Potential Game-Changer |
|---|---|---|
| England | Root, Buttler, Rashid | Jofra Archer’s pace could disrupt South Africa’s top order. |
| South Africa | Breetzke, Markram, Maharaj | Keshav Maharaj’s spin could exploit England’s middle-order woes. |
England may consider Rehan Ahmed for extra spin, while South Africa could debut Kwena Maphaka if Rabada is rested. Both teams have depth, but South Africa’s form gives them an edge.
Tactical Insights: Strategies to Win
England’s Game Plan
- Batting First: England should aim to bat first if they win the toss, setting a target of 270-300 to pressure South Africa. Root and Buttler must anchor, with Brook and Jacks accelerating.
- Bowling Strategy: Use Archer and Carse early to exploit swing, with Rashid targeting the middle overs to break partnerships.
- Key Battle: Adil Rashid vs. Aiden Markram. Rashid’s variations could dismiss Markram early, disrupting South Africa’s momentum.
South Africa’s Approach
- Aggressive Batting: Markram and Breetzke should attack England’s spinners, while Stubbs and Brevis provide late fireworks.
- Disciplined Bowling: Maharaj and Ngidi must maintain tight lines, with Burger’s pace targeting England’s top order.
- Key Battle: Jofra Archer vs. Matthew Breetzke. Archer’s bounce could challenge Breetzke’s technique.
| Tactical Takeaway | England | South Africa |
|---|---|---|
| Batting | Anchor with Root, accelerate with Buttler/Brook | Aggressive start with Markram, depth with Stubbs |
| Bowling | Early swing with Archer, spin with Rashid | Control with Maharaj, pace with Ngidi/Burger |
| Fielding | Tight infield to save runs | Sharp catching to dismiss Root early |
Prediction: Who Will Win England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025?
South Africa enter as favorites with a 60% win probability, thanks to their 2-0 lead and dominant form. Their bowling, led by Keshav Maharaj, and batting depth make them formidable. England, with a 40% chance, need Root and Buttler to fire and Archer to deliver with the ball. The Rose Bowl’s balanced pitch could favor England if they bat first and set a competitive total.
- Fantasy Cricket Picks: Joe Root, Matthew Breetzke, Keshav Maharaj, Adil Rashid.
- Key Moment: The first 10 overs of each innings will set the tone. If England lose early wickets, South Africa could dominate.
- Prediction: South Africa are likely to complete a 3-0 sweep, but England could upset if Root scores big and Rashid spins a web.
Join a fantasy league on FanCode or watch live on SonyLIV to catch every moment of this epic clash!
Your Questions Answered
Q: When is the England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025? A: The match is on September 7, 2025, at 11:00 AM LOCAL (3:30 PM IST) at The Rose Bowl, Southampton.
Q: Where can I watch England vs South Africa 3rd ODI live? A: In India, watch on Sony Sports Ten 5 or stream on FanCode/SonyLIV. UK fans can tune into Sky Sports, and South Africans can watch on SuperSport.
Q: What is the pitch like at The Rose Bowl? A: The Rose Bowl pitch offers early swing for seamers and becomes batsman-friendly later, with an average 1st innings score of 262.
Q: Who are the key players to watch? A: Watch Joe Root and Adil Rashid for England, and Matthew Breetzke and Keshav Maharaj for South Africa.
Q: What is the head-to-head record for England vs South Africa in ODIs? A: In 71 ODIs, South Africa lead with 35 wins to England’s 30, with 1 tie and 5 no-results.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss the Action!
The England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025 at The Rose Bowl is more than just a game—it’s a battle for pride, redemption, and supremacy. South Africa aim to complete a historic whitewash, while England fight to restore their ODI credentials. With stars like Joe Root, Adil Rashid, Matthew Breetzke, and Keshav Maharaj set to shine, this match promises fireworks. Tune in on September 7, 2025, via SonyLIV or Sony Sports Network, and join the conversation on IPL Star. Share your predictions in the comments below, or join a fantasy league to test your cricket knowledge! Who will win—England or South Africa? Let us know!
England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025 Recap
FAQs: England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025
1. When is the England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025?
Answer: The England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025 is scheduled for September 7, 2025, at 11:00 AM LOCAL (3:30 PM IST) at The Rose Bowl, Southampton. Don’t miss the action—watch live on SonyLIV or Sony Sports Network!
2. Where can I watch England vs South Africa 3rd ODI live streaming?
Answer: In India, stream the England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025 on FanCode or SonyLIV, or watch on Sony Sports Ten 5. UK fans can tune into Sky Sports, and South Africans can watch on SuperSport.
3. What is the pitch report for The Rose Bowl in the 3rd ODI 2025?
Answer: The Rose Bowl pitch report indicates a balanced surface with early swing for seamers and batting-friendly conditions later. The average 1st innings score is 262, favoring totals of 260-280. Spinners like Adil Rashid may shine.
4. Who are the key players to watch in England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025?
Answer: Watch Joe Root (660 runs) and Adil Rashid (22 wickets) for England, and Matthew Breetzke (463 runs) and Keshav Maharaj (15 wickets) for South Africa in the England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025.
5. What is the head-to-head record for England vs South Africa in ODIs?
Answer: In 71 ODIs, South Africa lead with 35 wins to England’s 30, with 1 tie and 5 no-results. South Africa have won the last four encounters, including both matches in the South Africa tour of England 2025.
6. Who will win the England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025?
Answer: South Africa are favorites with a 60% win probability in the England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025, thanks to their 2-0 lead. England could upset if Joe Root and Jofra Archer deliver at The Rose Bowl.
7. What is the significance of the 3rd ODI in the South Africa tour of England 2025?
Answer: The South Africa tour of England 2025 sees South Africa leading 2-0. The 3rd ODI is England’s chance to avoid a whitewash, while South Africa aim for a clean sweep to boost their ODI credentials.
8. How has Matthew Breetzke performed in the South Africa tour of England 2025?
Answer: Matthew Breetzke has been in top form, scoring 463 runs in 5 ODIs at an average of 92.6, including 85 in the 2nd ODI of the South Africa tour of England 2025. He’s a key batsman to watch.
9. What role will Adil Rashid play in the England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025?
Answer: Adil Rashid’s leg-spin (22 wickets in 10 matches) is crucial for England in the England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025. His ability to dismiss key batsmen like Aiden Markram could turn the game.
10. Why is the England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025 a must-watch?
Answer: The England vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2025 is a thrilling clash with England fighting to avoid a whitewash and South Africa chasing a 3-0 sweep. Stars like Root and Maharaj make it unmissable at The Rose Bowl!