England vs South Africa Match Prediction, 1st T20I – Who will win today’s match between ENG vs SA?

Published - 09 Sept 2025, 11:28 IST | Updated - 09 Sept 2025, 11:51 IST

England (ENG) and South Africa (SA) are set to take on each other in the first T20I of the ongoing white-ball series. Both teams recently faced off in an ODI series, where the visitors came out victorious by a 1-2 margin.

Both teams will now face off in a three-match T20I series, with the first T20I to be played at the Sophia Gardens in Cardiff, on Wednesday, September 10.  In England's last T20I series at home, they registered a 3-0 series washout against Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, South Africa toured Australia last month and lost the T20I leg by a 2-1 margin.

The surface at Sophia Gardens is expected to assist pacers with swing and seam movement in the early overs. Once batters get set, they can enjoy good carry and time their shots well, though patience will be key early on. While the pitch offers something for both batters and bowlers, chasing sides have held the advantage here, aided by consistent dew and the ability to control the scoreboard.

Jamie Smith, Phil Salt, Jos Buttler(w), Harry Brook(c), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Liam Dawson, Adil Rashid, Jofra Archer

Aiden Markram(c), Ryan Rickelton(w), Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Corbin Bosch, Senuran Muthusamy, Kagiso Rabada, Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi

England's Jacob Bethell could be the best batter in the upcoming game against South Africa. The southpaw has been running high on confidence after an impressive performance in the ODI leg of the series. Bethell scored 169 runs in three innings at an average of 56.33, including one fifty and a century to his name.

England's veteran spinner Adil Rashid could be the best bowler in the upcoming first T20I against South Africa. The leggie is the most experienced bowler in the team, and he will look to make good use of it. Rashid was also the highest wicket-taker in the ODI leg of the series, with eight scalps under his belt.

Disclaimer: The prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.