South Africa scripted history at Lord’s, edging England by 5 runs in the second ODI to seal their first bilateral ODI series victory on English soil in 27 years. Skipper Temba Bavuma became the first captain since Hansie Cronje in 1998 to achieve the feat, steering the Proteas to an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Matthew Breetzke’s composed 85 underpinned South Africa’s total of 330. The innings, supported by Tristan Stubbs in a 58-run stand, provided the foundation before the bowlers held their nerve in a tense finish. The match, producing 655 runs overall, set a new ODI record at the iconic venue. The last time South Africa returned victorious in an ODI series in England was in 1998. Since then, defeats in 2008, 2012, 2017, and 2022 had marked a barren run until Bavuma’s side reversed the pattern in 2025. Read also: "Sorry Mitchy!" Mitchell Starc's apology to T20I captain Marsh for sudden retirement England’s Struggles Deepen as South Africa Rise England’s chase of 331 demanded surpassing India’s 2002 record for the highest successful pursuit at Lord’s. Despite determined batting, the home side faltered. Nandre Burger (3/63) and Keshav Maharaj (2/59) curtailed the charge, handing South Africa a narrow yet decisive triumph. The loss continued a troubling trend for England. Since the 2023 ODI World Cup, they have won only one of six bilateral series, suffering four consecutive defeats to South Africa alone. Their win percentage in ODIs since then stands at just 31.8, above only Bangladesh and Zimbabwe among full members. By contrast, Bavuma’s leadership has drawn admiration. After guiding the Proteas to the World Test Championship crown, he has now overseen a landmark ODI triumph abroad. This result also marked South Africa’s second-closest ODI win against England, after their one-run victory in Cape Town in 2000. The final match of the series will be played on September 7. With the series already secured, South Africa will eye a clean sweep, while England hope to salvage pride with a consolation win.