ENG vs SA : Joe Root wins hearts by gifting his gloves to a young fan after a brilliant century in 3rd ODI

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England’s seasoned batting maestro Joe Root gave fans plenty to cheer about in the third ODI against South Africa at Southampton’s Rose Bowl on September 7, 2025. Not only did he light up the ground with a brilliant century, but he also reminded everyone why sport is as much about people as it is about numbers on a scoreboard.

After reaching exactly 100 runs before being dismissed, Root’s walk back to the pavilion turned into a scene that touched hearts across the cricketing world. As he made his way off the field, he noticed a young fan eagerly trying to get his attention. Rather than heading straight to the dressing room, Root paused, smiled, and handed over his batting gloves to the overjoyed youngster.

The child’s reaction—wide-eyed excitement turning instantly into pure happiness—was captured on camera and quickly spread across social media. Fans praised Root not only for his batting heroics but for showing a side of cricket that transcends the game: respect, generosity, and connection with supporters.

He’s a good egg 🥰

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) September 7, 2025

Also READ: ENG vs SA: Fans erupt as Joe Root lights up The Rose Bowl with a blistering century in the 3rd ODI

While Root’s gesture made headlines off the pitch, England’s performance on it was nothing short of spectacular. The hosts piled up a massive 414 for 5 in their 50 overs—marking their highest ODI score against South Africa and the fifth-biggest total in their ODI history.

Root’s century laid the foundation, but the spotlight soon turned to 21-year-old Jacob Bethell, who smashed his maiden international hundred with a brilliant 110 from 82 deliveries. His knock, combined with Root’s experience, produced a devastating 182-run partnership that left the South African bowlers with no answers.

Jos Buttler’s explosive unbeaten 62 from 32 balls and Jamie Smith’s rapid 62 off 48 ensured England finished with a flourish.

South Africa, however, crumbled in reply. Jofra Archer’s fiery spell of 4 for 18 and Adil Rashid’s 3 for 13 dismantled the visitors, bowling them out for just 72 runs in under 21 overs. England’s 342-run win was not only emphatic but also etched history as the largest victory margin in men’s ODI cricket.

Though South Africa had already sealed the series 2-1 after victories in the first two matches, England’s commanding comeback sent a strong message ahead of the T20I series starting on September 10 in Cardiff.

Also READ: Fans react as England prevent whitewash with record 342-run victory in final ODI; South Africa win series 2-1