Cricket fans around the world are in for a thrilling encounter when the first ODI of the three-match series between England and South Africa will be played at Headingley, Leeds on September 2, 2025. The day-night match marks the start of South Africa’s limited-overs tour of England, which also includes three T20Is later this month. Both teams are in great form, so fans can expect a cracking encounter at the start of the series.
Match Overview
Match: England vs South Africa, 1st ODI
Date: September 2, 2025 (Tuesday)
Venue: Headingley, Leeds
Format: One Day International (ODI), Day-Night Match
Kick-off Time: 1:00 PM (IST) / 5:30 PM (IST)
📺 England vs South Africa 1st ODI 2025: Live Streaming & Broadcast Details
Cricket lovers around the world can watch the thrilling encounter between Eng and SA live on TV as well as online platforms. Here are the full details:
🔹 In India
TV broadcast: Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 1 HD
Online streaming: SonyLIV app and website, FanCode (subscription required)
Match start time: 5:30 PM IST
🔹 In the United Kingdom
TV broadcast: Sky Sports Cricket, Sky Sports Main Event
Streaming: Now TV and Sky Go app (Day Pass also available)
Match start time: 1:00 PM BST
🔹 In SA
TV broadcast: SuperSport Grandstand, SuperSport Cricket
Streaming: DStv app for subscribers
Match start time: 2:00 PM SAST
🔹 In the United States
TV broadcast: Willow TV
Streaming: Sling TV (with Willow Cricket add-on)
Match start time: 8:00 AM ET
Captains:
England – Harry Brook
SA – Temba Bavuma
This ODI is particularly important for both teams as they prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 to be held in Pakistan. For Eng, it is an opportunity to test out new talent while SA will look to continue their winning momentum in the recent series with Australia.
England Preview
England will go into this series with a lot of confidence after beating West Indies in limited-overs cricket earlier this year. Their players are also fresh from successful performances in The Hundred 2025, which gave them plenty of match practice.
One of the most exciting aspects for English fans is the ODI debut of Sonny Baker, who is known for his pace and swing ability. With Jofra Archer back in the squad and Adil Rashid leading the spin department, Eng bowling attack looks both fresh and dangerous.
Key Players to Watch – England
- Harry Brook (Captain) – A stylish batsman who has been given the reins of the side in ODIs.
- Joe Root – The backbone of Eng batting order with his experience and consistency.
- Jos Buttler (Wicketkeeper) – Offers finishing power and leadership experience.
- Sonny Baker – With his ODI debut, all eyes will be on this young pacer.
- Adil Rashid – Eng premier spinner who can play a key role in the middle overs.
Eng will likely rely on a balance of experienced names like Root and Buttler as well as emerging talents like Jacob Bethell and Baker.
South Africa Preview
SA are arriving in Eng after a stellar performance in the ODI series against Australia, which has boosted their confidence ahead of this encounter. The team is balanced and has a mix of young talent and proven players.
Unfortunately, they will play without their pacer Kagiso Rabada, who has been ruled out of the first ODI due to an ankle injury. Wicketkeeper-batsman Mathew Breetzke is also not available due to a hamstring injury. Despite these setbacks, the Proteas have a strong lineup led by captain Temba Bavuma.
Key Players to Watch – SA
- Temba Bavuma (Captain) – A solid player in the top order who provides stability.
- Aiden Markram – A versatile all-rounder who is in great form.
- Dewald Brevis – “Baby AB” who is known for his aggressive batting style.
- Keshav Maharaj – Experienced spinner who can control the game in the middle overs.
- Nandre Burger and Kwena Mphaka – Young fast bowlers who are looking to make a mark.
SA strength is their combination of aggressive batting and disciplined bowling. Even without Rabada, they have a capable fast bowling unit and great spin bowling options.
England vs SA: Head to Head in ODIs
Historically, Eng and SA have played some of the most entertaining matches in ODI history. Their rivalry has been competitive, and both teams have had a great record over the years. Matches between these two teams are often nail-biting, making this series even more exciting for fans.
At Headingley, Eng usually enjoy good support and favourable batting conditions, but SA fast bowlers have also performed well in English conditions in the past.
Match timings in different regions
UK (Indian Standard Time): 1:00 PM
India (Indian Standard Time): 5:30 PM
SA (South East Asia): 2:00 PM
USA (East Asia): 8:00 AM
This timing makes the match accessible to fans from all continents, allowing a global audience to watch it.
Why this match matters
Testing new talent: England are giving a debut to Sonny Baker while South Africa are giving more opportunities to their young players like Dewald Brevis and Kwena Mphaka.
- World Cup preparations: Both teams are looking to make a comeback in the tournament
- England are gearing up for the Champions Trophy 2025 and this series is part of their long-term plans.
- Balanced rivalry: England’s explosive batting and South Africa’s balanced all-round team make for an even contest.
Probable Playing XI Eng
- Ben Duckett
- Will Jacks
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook (c)
- Jos Buttler (wk)
- Jamie Smith
- Jacob Bethell
- Bryden Carse
- Jofra Archer
- Adil Rashid
- Sunny Baker
SA
- Temba Bavuma (c)
- Ryan Rickelton (wk)
- Tony de Zorzi
- Aiden Markram
- Dewald Brewis
- Tristan Stubbs
- Wiaan Mulder
- Corbin Bosch
- Keshav Maharaj
- Nandre Burger
- Kwena Mphaka
- Final Thoughts
The England vs South Africa 1st ODI at Headingley promises to be a classic match. Both teams have world-class talent and rising stars, so fans can expect plenty of drama, big shots, fast bowling and exciting moments.
England will want to make the most of their home advantage, while South Africa will want to prove that they can win overseas despite injuries. Whether it is Jofra Archer’s swing, Sonny Baker’s debut, or Dewald Brevis’ explosive batting, this match is going to keep cricket fans hooked from ball one to the last.
TOSS AND MATCH PREDICTION
Probably Toss Winner – SA
Probably Match Winner – SA
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