World Cup 2019 hosts England defeated South Africa in the tournament opener by 104 runs. South Africa’s chase took a hit when Hashim Amla had to retire hurt after being hit by a quick Jofra Archer’s bouncer. His partner Quintin de Kock continued playing his shots amidst tumbling wickets from the other end.

Aiden Markram and skipper Faf du Plesis both departed cheaply. Rassie van der Dussen, in at No. 5, held the innings from the other end and supported de Kock well. They both batted sensibly and kept South Africa in the hunt.

De Kock got out for 68 which derailed South Africa chase. The team didn’t recover from there as wickets kept falling at regular intervals. Andile Phehlukwayo played a little cameo that didn’t make much difference and they were bowled out for 207. Earlier in the day, South Africa skipper Faf du Plesis won the toss and elected to bat against England in the first match of World Cup 2019. They went on to complete their respective half-centuries and notched up 100-run partnership.

South Africa bowlers dismissed both batsmen in quick succession to bring their side back in contest. England skipper Eoin Morgan, who was playing his 200th ODI match, and Ben Stokes started slow but picked up the pace later in their innings. From there, South Africa bowlers picked up wickets in regular intervals and didn’t allow the English batsmen to score runs freely.