England created history in Manchester. The batters went all out against South Africa in the second T20I at Emirates Old Trafford. They became the Test-playing nation to score over 300 runs in a T20 International.
England ended with a massive 304 for 2 in 20 overs. This was the highest score by an active Test-playing country in the format. It broke India’s record of 297 for 6 against Bangladesh in Hyderabad in 2024.
Phil Salt was the star of the night. The opener played a record knock of 141 not out from just 60 balls. His innings had 15 fours and eight sixes. He also set the record for the highest T20I score by an English player. His hundred came in only 39 balls. It was the fastest century by any England player in international cricket.
Jos Buttler and Phil Salt Thrash The Proteas Bowlers in ENG vs SA 2nd T20I in Manchester
Captain Jos Buttler gave him strong support. Buttler hit 83 runs in only 30 balls. His strike rate was 276. He smashed 8 fours and 7 sixes. Together, Salt and Buttler tore apart the South African bowling.
Later, Jacob Bethell hit 26 off 15 balls. Harry Brook remained unbeaten on 41 from just 21 deliveries. They kept the momentum high in the final overs. England crossed 300 for the first time and set a world record for a Test nation.
The highest T20I totals now include Zimbabwe’s 344 for 4 against Gambia, Nepal’s 314 for 3 against Mongolia, and England’s 304 for 2 against South Africa.
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South Africa had no answer to England’s batting fireworks. Chasing 305, they fell apart quickly. Skipper Aiden Markram tried with 41 runs. But no one else stood up. The team was bowled out for 158 in only 17 overs.
Jofra Archer was brilliant with the ball. Returning after missing the first game, he took 3 wickets for 25 runs. His pace and control made the chase impossible for the visitors.
England won the match by 146 runs. It was one of their biggest wins in T20I cricket. The record-breaking night will be remembered for Salt’s brilliance and England’s fearless batting display.
