Every cricket fans pivots their eyes to Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester, where England and South Africa conflict in the second T20I on Friday, September 12, 2025. After an excellent opener, the big query fans are asking is simple yet crucial: Who will win the match today? This match promises not just recreation but also vital retorts about both sides’ practice for the upcoming ICC tournaments.
Match Info
- Fixture: England vs South Africa, 2nd T20I, South Africa tour of England 2025
- Date: Friday, September 12, 2025
- Time: 11:00 PM IST
- Place: Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester
England Preview
England step into this match as slight choices, mainly due to their experience and home advantage. Captain Jos Buttler stays the heart of their batting unit. His consistency at the top gives England confidence, while Harry Brook play in the middle order. England also has opener-hitters like Will Jacks and Philip Salt, both of whom are capable of accelerating quickly runs on board.
Their bowling attack looks balanced. Jofra Archer’s pace is a tremendous boost, while Adil Rashid continues to provide control in the middle overs. Sam Curran and Jamie Overton add depth as all-rounders. This mix of proven performers and youngsters makes England tough to beat at home.
Key Players:
- Jos Buttler – England’s best T20 batter and a reliable match-winner.
- Harry Brook – Explosive in the middle order, ideal for finishing.
- Jofra Archer – Capable of breaking partnerships with raw pace.
- Adil Rashid – Master spinner, effective against South Africa’s big-hitters.
South Africa Preview
South Africa comes with a squad bursting with youngster and raw power. Aiden Markram captain, stays strong in the middle overs and has been a constant performer in recent series. The thrilling trio of Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, and Donovan Ferreira are South Africa’s X-factors—each can turn the match with bold hitting.
The Proteas’ bowling attack looks just as dangerous. Kagiso Rabada lead the bowling, supported by Marco Jansen, Nandre Burger, and Lizaad Williams. Jansen in particular offers variety with left-arm pace. Spin options like Keshav Maharaj add balance, especially on Old Trafford’s gripping surface.
Key Players:
- Aiden Markram – Brings stability and leadership.
- Dewald Brevis – “Baby AB,” capable of explosive innings.
- Kagiso Rabada – South Africa’s brillant bowler.
- Marco Jansen – Left-arm pace and handy lower-order bat.
Pitch & Weather Information – Old Trafford, Manchester
Old Trafford often produces balanced games. Seam bowlers enjoy bounce early on, but batters can dominate if they survive the first few overs. Spinners are also practical as the pitch slows down.
- Pitch Nature: Level, good for bat and ball.
- First Innings Average Score: 165–175.
- Weather: The sky clear and some dew factor at the night
Head-to-Head Insights
England and South Africa have played several fierce T20Is over the years. England has had the upper hand in recent clash, but South Africa has often pulled off upsets with brave cricket. Matches between these two are typically close, making today’s contest even more intersting.
Expert Analysis – Who Will Win the Match Today?
This is the question every fan is asking: who will win the match today?
England’s strengths are their batting depth and variety in bowling. Playing at home also gives them confidence, as they know the conditions well. Buttler and Brook could be the game-changers if they click.
South Africa, however, cannot be underestimated. Their young batting order, led by Brevis and Stubbs, has the firepower to chase down big targets. If Rabada and Jansen strike early, England’s middle order could be tested.
If England bats first: Expect 170–185 runs. Buttler and Salt may dominate the powerplay.
If South Africa bats first: Likely 160–170, depending on Brevis or Markram’s performance.
Who will win the match today? Our prediction:
| Team | Winning Probability | Key Advantage | X-Factor Players |
|---|---|---|---|
| England | 55% | Home advantage, balanced squad, depth | Jos Buttler, Harry Brook, Jofra Archer |
| South Africa | 45% | Fearless young batting, strong pace | Dewald Brevis, Aiden Markram, Kagiso Rabada |
Cricket Betting Insights & Tips
For bettors, this game offers exciting markets. Here are some tips worth considering:
- Top Batter Markets:
- England: Jos Buttler or Harry Brook
- South Africa: Dewald Brevis or Aiden Markram
- Top Bowler Markets:
- England: Jofra Archer (pace)
- South Africa: Kagiso Rabada (death overs)
- Best Bets:
- Most Sixes: South Africa – because of their heavy hitters.
- Safe Bet: Buttler to score 30+ runs.
- Value Pick: Archer to take 2+ wickets.
- Toss Prediction: Chasing could be the smarter option under dew.
Final Word
The England vs South Africa 2nd T20I is set to be an electrifying contest. England, with their balance and home advantage, may just edge past South Africa. But the Proteas’ fearless batting lineup ensures this is far from one-sided.
So, who will win the match today? Based on analysis, squads, and form, England look like the securer bet—but South Africa has the tools to have a surprise. Fans can expect a high-scoring, closely fought game that could go down to the wire.
Also Check our today Asia Cup match prediction Pakistan vs Oman