By Tim Douglas 
Match Overview England vs South Africa 2nd T20I 2025
The 2nd T20I of the England vs South Africa series will be played at Old Trafford, Manchester, on September 12, 2025. South Africa lead the series 1–0 after a DLS win in Cardiff, and England now face a must-win contest to stay alive. With both teams boasting explosive batting line-ups and attacking bowlers, fans can expect another high-scoring thriller.
Recent Form
- England (Last 5 T20Is): L, W, W, W, L – inconsistent but strong at home.
- South Africa (Last 5 T20Is): L, L, W, L, W – unpredictable, but capable of match-winning bursts.
Players to Watch – England
- Jos Buttler (Captain) – The backbone of England’s batting, 336 runs in last 10 T20Is, averaging 37.3 with a blistering SR of 151. A strong powerplay start will be vital.
- Harry Brook – Aggressive middle-order option, capable of quick runs, though needs consistency (166 runs in 9 matches).
- Brydon Carse – In form with the ball, 11 wickets in 7 games, striking every 15 balls, a genuine wicket-taker in middle overs.
- Adil Rashid – England’s spin weapon, 10 wickets in 9 matches, always crucial at Old Trafford with its spin-friendly surface.
Players to Watch – South Africa
- Dewald Brevis – The rising star, nicknamed “Baby AB”, has 336 runs in 9 matches at a stunning SR 198.8 and average of 48.
- Lhuan-dre Pretorius – Explosive top-order batter, though inconsistent, can change games if he fires.
- Kwena Maphaka – The teenage pace sensation with 12 wickets in 7 games, lethal with the new ball.
- Corbin Bosch – All-round threat, 10 wickets in 8 matches, steady with the ball and handy lower-order runs.
Head-to-Head (Last 5 Matches)
- Sep 2025 (1st T20I, Cardiff): South Africa won by 14 runs (DLS).
- Jun 2024: South Africa won by 7 runs.
- Jul 2022: South Africa won by 90 runs.
- Jul 2022: South Africa won by 58 runs.
- Jul 2022: England won by 41 runs.
South Africa lead 4–1 in last five T20Is, clearly dominating this rivalry.
Match Prediction England vs South Africa 2nd T20I 2025
England will rely heavily on Buttler and Rashid to turn the tide, while South Africa’s firepower in Brevis and Maphaka gives them a sharp edge. With Old Trafford offering both pace and spin assistance, expect a tactical battle.
Prediction: South Africa slight favorites, but England could level the series if Buttler produces a captain’s knock.