24-06-2017, 23:03
3rd Twenty20 International
Sophia Gardens, Cardiff
Sophia Gardens, Cardiff
A tight match at Taunton slipped away from England at the death thanks to some quality South African bowling and the controversial dismissal of Jason Roy, who looked to have played his way back into form at last. But this at least sets up a decider for the series tomorrow in South Wales, and it could go either way.
For South Africa there's little reason to change the line-up that rose to the occasion on Friday night, but for England rotation is still likely. Dawid Malan and Craig Overton are the uncapped players remaining, and if Morgan is as good as his word we'll see both of them feature in this one; the former will take the place of the absent Jonny Bairstow, while the latter may be preferred to an off-the-pace Chris Jordan. But how much youth is too much? It would be harsh to drop Tom Curran after an impressive debut, but can England afford so many young heads in a series decider?
There are a few demons to be exorcised for England on this pitch in the wake of the Champions Trophy, and the conditions should make things that little bit more interesting: it'll be a cool day, and there's an outside chance of some rain. Perfect Cardiff weather for a Sunday afternoon's entertainment.
Play commences at 1430, 25th June 2017
"I would rather spend a holiday in Tuscany than in the Black Country, but if I were compelled to choose between living in West Bromwich or Florence, I should make straight for West Bromwich." - J.B. Priestley