Harry Brook-led England will lock horns with Aiden Markram’s South Africa in the opening match of the three-match T20I series at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, on Wednesday.
Fresh off their 2–1 triumph over England in the ODI series, the Proteas will be eager to extend their winning momentum in the shortest format. For this series, South Africa have brought back senior players David Miller, Keshav Maharaj, and Donovan Ferreira, aiming to strengthen the squad in key areas.
On the other side, England have made a notable addition by including bowling all-rounder Sam Curran in place of opener Ben Duckett, who has been rested for the T20I leg. This marks Curran’s first international appearance of 2025, with his last outing in national colors coming during the West Indies tour in November 2024.
Curran’s impressive form in the ongoing T20 Blast has made his selection inevitable. The left-arm all-rounder has scored 365 runs and taken 21 wickets in just 15 matches, proving himself as one of the most impactful players of the competition. His return will be a significant boost for England as they prepare to take on South Africa in what promises to be an exciting T20I opener.