The rivalry between the England Cricket Team and the South Africa National Cricket Team is one of the most competitive in international cricket. With both teams known for strong pace attacks and balanced squads, their encounters have consistently delivered high-quality and closely fought matches.
Recent England vs South Africa
Tournament
Venue
Date
Toss
England Score
South Africa Score
Result
Series
Bilateral T20I
Manchester
Sep 12, 2025
SA (field)
304/2 (20)
158 (16.1)
England won by 146 runs
Bilateral T20I
Bilateral T20I
Cardiff
Sep 10, 2025
ENG (bat)
54/5 (10)
97/5 (10)
SA won by 14 runs (DLS)
Bilateral T20I
Bilateral ODI
Southampton
Sep 7, 2025
SA (field)
414/6 (50)
72 (20.5)
England won by 342 runs
Bilateral ODI
Bilateral ODI
London
Sep 4, 2025
ENG (field)
325/9 (50)
330/6 (50)
SA won by 5 runs
Bilateral ODI
Bilateral ODI
Leeds
Sep 2, 2025
ENG (bat)
131 (33.4)
137/3 (16)
SA won by 7 wickets
Bilateral ODI
Champions Trophy
Karachi
Mar 1, 2025
ENG (bat)
179 (45.5)
181/3 (33.4)
SA won by 7 wickets
Champions Trophy
T20 World Cup
Gros Islet
Jun 21, 2024
ENG (field)
156/6 (20)
163/6 (20)
SA won by 7 runs
T20 World Cup
Format-wise Head-to-Head Stats
Format
Total Matches
England Wins
South Africa Wins
Draw/Tie/NR
Test Matches
156
66
35
55
ODI Matches
70
30
35
5
T20I Matches
26
12
13
1
Key Performance Stats
Category
Player Name
Team
Stat Value
Most Test Runs
Joe Root
England
12,000+
Most ODI Centuries
Quinton de Kock
South Africa
21
Best T20 Strike Rate
Jos Buttler
England
144.6
Most Test Wickets
Kagiso Rabada
South Africa
290+
Most ODI Wickets
Adil Rashid
England
190+
Match Result Breakdown
Result Type
Frequency
Most Recent Venue
England Win (Home)
3
Manchester (2025)
South Africa Win (Home)
2
Bloemfontein (2023)
South Africa Win (Neutral)
3
Gros Islet (2024)
England Win (Neutral)
1
Mumbai (2023)
No Result/Rain
1
Cardiff (2025)
Overall Head-to-Head Records Across Formats
The overall head-to-head record between England and South Africa reflects a balanced rivalry with slight variations across formats. In Test cricket, England holds a marginal edge due to its long history and strong home performances. In ODIs, South Africa has been more consistent and maintains a lead in total wins. T20 Internationals are closely contested, with both teams sharing victories. The stats highlight how evenly matched these teams are, with no clear long-term dominance. This balance ensures that every series between them remains unpredictable and exciting for cricket fans worldwide.
Format
Matches
England Wins
South Africa Wins
Draw/No Result
Tests
150+
60+
35+
Many
ODIs
70+
30+
40+
Few
T20Is
25+
12+
13+
Few
Overall
250+
Slight Edge
Competitive
Many
Test Cricket Stats and Historic Rivalry
Test cricket between England and South Africa has a rich history dating back to the early days of international cricket. England has traditionally been strong at home, using swing and seam conditions to its advantage. South Africa, however, has been highly competitive, especially with its world-class fast bowlers. The stats show England leading in total Test wins, but South Africa has secured important victories, including series wins in England. Draw matches are also a significant feature, reflecting the closely contested nature of these encounters. Test matches between these teams are often intense, strategic, and dominated by bowlers.
Category
England
South Africa
Total Wins
60+
35+
Home Wins
Very Strong
Strong
Away Wins
Competitive
Strong
Series Wins
More
Several
Draw Matches
Many
Many
One Day International (ODI) Stats Overview
ODI cricket between England and South Africa has been highly competitive, with both teams delivering strong performances over the years. South Africa holds an advantage in total ODI wins, thanks to consistent performances and a balanced squad. England, however, has improved significantly in recent years with an aggressive playing style. Matches in this format often feature high scores, successful chases, and thrilling finishes. The stats indicate South Africa’s edge, but England’s recent form has made the rivalry more balanced.
Category
England
South Africa
Matches Won
30+
40+
Highest Score
400+
430+
Successful Chases
Many
Many
Win Percentage
Competitive
Slightly Higher
ICC Encounters
Multiple
Multiple
T20 International Stats and Modern Contest
T20 Internationals have added a dynamic and fast-paced dimension to the England vs South Africa rivalry. Both teams have strong T20 squads capable of explosive performances. The stats show a nearly even contest, with South Africa having a slight edge in wins. England’s aggressive batting and innovative strategies make them a formidable opponent, while South Africa relies on power-hitting and pace bowling. Close finishes and high-scoring games are common in this format, making it highly entertaining.
Category
England
South Africa
Matches Won
12+
13+
Highest Score
230+
220+
Strike Rate
Aggressive
Aggressive
Best Bowling
Strong
Strong
Recent Form
Strong
Competitive
Key Players and Match-Winning Performances
The England vs South Africa rivalry has been shaped by legendary players and standout performances. Both teams have produced world-class cricketers who have delivered match-winning innings and crucial bowling spells. Centuries, five-wicket hauls, and record partnerships have defined many encounters. The stats highlight that individual brilliance often plays a decisive role, especially in closely contested matches. These performances add depth and excitement to the rivalry.
Record Type
England
South Africa
Top Run Scorer
High
High
Top Wicket Taker
Strong
Strong
Centuries
Many
Many
Best Bowling Figures
Notable
Notable
Match Winners
Numerous
Numerous
Modern Era Stats and Rivalry Evolution
In the modern era, the England vs South Africa rivalry remains highly competitive. England’s transformation into an aggressive white-ball team has strengthened their position in ODIs and T20Is. South Africa continues to maintain consistency across formats with a strong core of players. The stats from recent years show closely fought contests, with both teams winning important matches. This evolution reflects the high level of competition in international cricket and ensures that this rivalry continues to deliver exciting encounters.
Aspect
England
South Africa
Recent Wins
Competitive
Competitive
Team Strength
Strong
Strong
ICC Performance
Strong
Strong
Player Depth
Deep
Deep
Rivalry Status
Balanced
Balanced
Conclusion
The England Cricket Team vs South Africa National Cricket Team rivalry is a showcase of competitive and high-quality cricket. With balanced stats, historic battles, and consistent performances from both sides, this contest remains one of the most exciting in international cricket. As both teams continue to evolve, their encounters promise thrilling matches and unforgettable moments for cricket fans around the world.