England win 1st ODI against South Africa

Leeds (UK), May 24 (AFP) England beat South Africa by 72 runs to win the day/night first one-day international at Headingley today and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. England captain Eoin Morgan struck 107 in a total of 339 for six after he lost the toss. Morgan and Moeen Ali (77 not out) shared a stand of 117 after England had slumped to 198 for five. South Africa, set 340 for victory, were never in the hunt after the world’s top-ranked ODI side lost both Hashim Amla (73) and Faf du Plessis (67) in quick succession to be 149 for three. They were bowled out for 267, with paceman Chris Woakes taking four for 38 as England won with five overs to spare. The series, a warm-up ahead of next week’s Champions Trophy tournament in England and Wales, continues at Southampton on Saturday. Brief scores England: 339-6, 50 overs (E Morgan 107, M Ali 77 no, A Hales 61) South Africa: 267, 45 overs (H Amla 73, F du Plessis 67; C Woakes 4-38) Result: England won by 72 runs Series: England lead three-match series 1-0. (AFP)