England produced a breathtaking performance to crush South Africa by 146 runs in the second T20 International at Old Trafford. The victory leveled the three-match series 1–1 and showed England’s strength ahead of the decider.
Phil Salt was the star of the night. He scored an unbeaten 141 runs from just 60 balls. It was the highest individual T20I score by an England player and the fastest T20I hundred for the team. Salt’s knock included explosive sixes that lifted the crowd and gave England complete control.
Captain Jos Buttler also joined the party. He smashed 83 runs from 30 balls, building a huge opening partnership with Salt. Together, they helped England post 304 for 2 in 20 overs, a new team record in T20Is against a major cricket nation. This total is also one of the highest ever recorded in international T20 cricket.
South Africa, chasing a massive target, struggled from the start. Quinton de Kock offered some resistance, but wickets kept falling. The visitors were eventually bowled out for 158 in 16.1 overs. England’s bowlers were sharp, with Jofra Archer claiming three wickets, while Sam Curran and Will Jacks added pressure with tight spells.
The win was important for England after losing the first game of the series. Coach Matthew Mott praised the players for their aggressive batting and disciplined bowling. Fans also celebrated Salt’s knock, calling it one of the greatest in England’s T20 history.
Now the series moves to Nottingham for the final match. England will look to carry this momentum forward, while South Africa must regroup quickly. The decider promises to be a thrilling contest as both sides aim to secure a memorable series win.
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