England vs South Africa, 2nd ODI 2025 Today – Match Preview, Prediction & Fantasy Tips

Introduction
The iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground sets the stage for the 2nd ODI between England and South Africa in the ongoing bilateral series. After a one-sided opening encounter where South Africa dominated, England are desperate to bounce back and level the series.
Key Takeaways
- England vs South Africa 2nd ODI takes place at the historic Lord’s on September 4, 2025.
- Head-to-head is razor-close: England 32 wins, South Africa 33 wins. This match could even things up.
- England under pressure after a batting collapse in the first ODI; Buttler, Brook, and Duckett need to deliver.
- South Africa in control with a 7-wicket win in the opener, and Rabada’s likely return boosts their pace attack.
- Pitch outlook: Early swing for seamers, but batting becomes easier as the match progresses.
- Prediction: South Africa favorites to go 2–0 up unless England’s top order clicks.
- Fantasy tip: Safe captaincy choices are Aiden Markram or Temba Bavuma, with Jos Buttler a solid vice-captain pick.
Match Details
- Match: England vs South Africa, 2nd ODI
- Date: September 4, 2025
- Venue: Lord’s, London
- Time: 1:00 PM local / 5:30 PM IST
Head-to-Head in ODIs
- Total Matches: 68
- England Wins: 32
- South Africa Wins: 33
- No Result/Tie: 3
The rivalry has been extremely close, and this match could tilt the overall head-to-head balance.
Team Form & Key Updates
🔹 England
England’s batting lineup struggled in the first ODI, collapsing for just 131 runs. Players like Jos Buttler, Harry Brook, and Ben Duckett need to step up. The bowling department will rely on Jofra Archer and Adil Rashid to contain South Africa’s powerful batting.
Key Players to Watch:
- Jos Buttler (Wicketkeeper)
- Harry Brook (Captain, Middle-order)
- Jofra Archer (Pace spearhead)
🔹 South Africa
South Africa are high on confidence after their 7-wicket win in the series opener. Kagiso Rabada is likely to return, strengthening their pace attack alongside Lungi Ngidi. With Ryan Rickelton and Aiden Markram anchoring the batting, they look well balanced.
Key Players to Watch:
- Ryan Rickelton (Opener)
- Aiden Markram (All-rounder)
- Kagiso Rabada (Fast bowler)
Pitch & Conditions at Lord’s
- Lord’s usually offers a balanced wicket. Early swing may test openers.
- As the game progresses, batting becomes easier.
- Weather forecast: Mostly clear skies with mild cloud cover—ideal for cricket.
Prediction
England will be desperate to fight back, but South Africa’s momentum and possible Rabada return give them the upper hand. Unless England’s top order fires, South Africa are favorites to win the 2nd ODI.
Prediction: South Africa to take a 2–0 lead.
Fantasy Cricket Tips
- Captain Choice: Bavuma / Aiden Markram
- Vice-Captain Choice: Jos Buttler / Harry Brook
- Top Picks: Joe Root, Jofra Archer, Wiaan Mulder
Final Word
The 2nd ODI at Lord’s is a must-win for England, while South Africa will be aiming to seal the series early. With big names on both sides, fans can expect a high-intensity clash at the home of cricket.
👉 You can also check our ENG vs SA 1st ODI 2025 preview and prediction to see how the series started and compare it with today’s 2nd ODI insights
👉 Stay updated with ENG vs SA live scores, match predictions & fantasy tips—download the app and visit AllCric.
❓ FAQs
👉 The 2nd ODI will be played on September 4, 2025, at Lord’s, London.
👉 The match starts at 1:00 PM local (5:30 PM IST).
👉 Joe Root, Jofra Archer, Wiaan Mulder
👉 They’ve played 68 matches: England won 32, South Africa won 33, with 3 no results.
👉 South Africa is expected to win this match
👉 Download the AllCric App or visit the AllCric website for live scores, updates, and fantasy tips.