South Africa enter the series against the backdrop of a bizarre decision to forfeit a Cricket World Cup Super League series against Australia.
This series doesn’t count towards qualification for the World Cup but it does allow the team to test themselves against the world champions.
England vs South Africa | First ODI | Tuesday 19 July 2022 | The Riverside Stadium, Chester-le-Street | 14:00
England
England have blown hot and cold in their series against India but will be expected to settle down and dominate South Africa.
Top order power appears to give England a clear edge with the likes of Jonny Bairstow in superb form.
England have to be concerned with the form of Jason Roy whose impact on this team is often underestimated.
The bowlers have been tremendous across the summer despite a lot of rotation and underlines England’s new found depth.
South Africa
The tourists appear to have found form in their warm-up matches with Heinrich Klaasen smashing a century against the England Lions.
Andile Phehlukwayo is set for an important series as he seeks to put his hand up for the allrounder slot for the World Cup next year.
South Africa need to build momentum if they are to qualify directly for the World Cup although a trip to the qualfiying tournament looks exceedingly likely.
Bowling is still the Proteas great strength but they have historically struggled to find the best lines in England.
Verdict: England
England have had the better preparation.
