England vs South Africa Prediction: Who Will Win 1st ODI Match on 2nd September 2025?
The excitement of international cricket returns to the UK with a high-voltage clash at Headingley as we bring you the England vs South Africa prediction for the 1st ODI on Tuesday, 2nd September 2025. England are looking to extend their unbeaten summer run while South Africa, fresh from a series victory in Australia, will want to stamp their authority in challenging English conditions. With both teams boasting a mixture of young stars and seasoned campaigners, fans can expect a gripping encounter in Leeds. Cricketwebs provides 100% match prediction tips for every cricket match including today’s ENG vs SA 1st ODI.
Match Details
| Match | ENG vs SA, 1st ODI 2025 |
|---|---|
| Date | Tuesday, 2nd September 2025 |
| Time | 5:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Headingley Cricket Ground, Leeds |
| Live Streaming | FanCode |
Team Previews
England Preview
England arrive at Headingley after an unbeaten home summer that has already seen them overcome West Indies and Zimbabwe while drawing a thrilling series against India. Under the fresh leadership of Harry Brook, the side looks dynamic and hungry to establish itself ahead of the 2027 World Cup. England’s batting unit will rely on Tom Banton and Ben Duckett at the top, followed by Joe Root’s composure, Brook’s fearless stroke play, and Jos Buttler’s finishing power.
Their middle and lower order is further strengthened by versatile all-rounders like Will Jacks and Rehan Ahmed. In bowling, Adil Rashid continues to shine as one of the most dependable spinners, while Jofra Archer’s pace and Brydon Carse’s bounce add venom to the attack. England’s balance between bat and ball makes them formidable at home, and they will bank on their crowd support at Leeds to keep the winning momentum alive.
South Africa Preview
South Africa enter this contest in red-hot form after a successful tour of Australia where they defeated the hosts 2-1 in ODIs. Led by Temba Bavuma, this Proteas squad plays fearless cricket, with youngsters like Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Ryan Rickelton bringing aggression at the top. The middle-order boasts firepower from Tristan Stubbs and Dewald Brevis, while all-rounder Wiaan Mulder provides balance.
The bowling attack is spearheaded by Kagiso Rabada, supported by Lungi Ngidi and prodigy Kwena Maphaka, who impressed in Australian conditions. Spin duties will be handled by the reliable Keshav Maharaj, whose experience will be vital on English pitches. South Africa’s recent dominance over England in ODIs (winning 4 of the last 5) gives them confidence, but conditions in Leeds are notoriously tricky, making it a true test of adaptability.
England Squad
Harry Brook (c), Tom Banton, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Jos Buttler (wk), Jamie Smith, Will Jacks, Rehan Ahmed, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid
South Africa Squad
Temba Bavuma (c), Aiden Markram, Lhuan-dre Pretorius (wk), Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis, Wiaan Mulder, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka
Probable Playing XI
England XI: Tom Banton, Ben Duckett, Jos Buttler (wk), Joe Root, Harry Brook (c), Jamie Smith, Will Jacks, Rehan Ahmed, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid
South Africa XI: Aiden Markram, Lhuan-dre Pretorius (wk), Ryan Rickelton, Temba Bavuma (c), Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis, Wiaan Mulder, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| WK | Jos Buttler |
| Batters | Joe Root, Harry Brook, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton |
| All-rounders | Will Jacks, Aiden Markram |
| Bowlers | Jofra Archer, Kagiso Rabada, Adil Rashid, Keshav Maharaj |
Fantasy Tips
- Captain choices: Jos Buttler, Harry Brook
- Vice-captain choices: Joe Root, Kagiso Rabada
- Players to avoid: Jamie Smith (inexperienced in ODIs), Lhuan-dre Pretorius (unproven in English conditions)
Favourite Team in Today’s Match
England hold the edge in today’s game owing to their strong home record at Headingley and their recent consistency. Harry Brook’s captaincy has injected new energy into the side, while experienced players like Joe Root and Jos Buttler ensure stability. Jofra Archer’s pace and Adil Rashid’s spin mastery make their bowling attack dangerous in home conditions. Although South Africa are a tough opponent and recently beat Australia, adapting to English pitches will be a major challenge. England’s depth in both batting and bowling gives them the upper hand, making them the favourite to win this opening ODI clash.
England ODI History
England have played 815 ODIs, winning 406 and losing 370, with 31 no results and 8 ties. They are one of the most consistent ODI teams globally.
South Africa ODI History
South Africa have played 689 ODIs, securing 417 wins and suffering 245 losses, with 21 no results and 6 ties. They remain among cricket’s strongest white-ball sides.
Head-to-Head Stats
| Matches | England Won | South Africa Won | No Result | Tied |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 71 | 30 | 35 | 5 | 1 |
At Headingley: Played 4, England won 3, South Africa 0, No Result 1.
South Africa lead the overall head-to-head, but at Headingley, England are dominant with three wins and no losses.
Pitch Report
The Headingley pitch generally offers assistance to both seamers and batsmen. Early swing with the new ball is expected, but once settled, batsmen can score big. Spinners may find limited help.
Weather Report
Leeds is expected to have clear skies with mild temperatures around 22°C. No rain interruptions are forecast, ensuring a full 50-over contest.
Broadcast Details
- Live Streaming: FanCode
- TV: Updates pending official broadcaster confirmation
Score Prediction
- If England bat first: 312+
- If South Africa bat first: 268+
Toss Prediction
South Africa are likely to win the toss and opt to field first, considering Leeds’ morning swing advantage.
Match Prediction
Winner: England will win the 1st ODI. Their form, home advantage, and balance across departments make them the favourites despite South Africa’s recent good run.
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
FAQ – ENG vs SA 1st ODI
Q1. When is the England vs South Africa 1st ODI 2025?
Tuesday, 2nd September 2025, at Headingley, Leeds.
Q2. What time does ENG vs SA 1st ODI start?
The match begins at 5:30 PM IST.
Q3. Where to watch the England vs South Africa 1st ODI?
Live streaming will be available on FanCode.
Q4. Who is favourite to win ENG vs SA 1st ODI?
England are favourites due to home advantage and consistent form.
Q5. What are the head-to-head stats between England and South Africa in ODIs?
Out of 71 ODIs, England won 30, South Africa won 35, 5 no results, and 1 tie.
Q6. Who are the best fantasy captain choices for ENG vs SA 1st ODI?
Jos Buttler and Harry Brook are strong captaincy picks.
Q7. What is the expected pitch behaviour at Headingley?
The pitch will assist seamers early but becomes batting-friendly later.
Q8. What is the toss prediction for ENG vs SA 1st ODI?
South Africa may win the toss and choose to bowl first.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricketwebs on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
