England comfortably handled South Africa and a lively Oval pitch to win the opening match of the Cricket World Cup by 104 runs with 10 overs to spare.
It was the statement win sought by the hot title favorites, but not as expected. The bowlers starred rather than the batsmen, notably newcomer Jofra Archer, whose pace scared the daylights out of the South Africa top order. He took three wickets.
Because England has been putting up huge totals, 311-8 on a green-tinged pitch seemed only decent, though the home team was happy. They were certain they could defend it, despite chasing teams having an excellent record at the Oval.
England’s cause was helped by South Africa blowing the script, again. The chase was too much to bear on a batting lineup not as deep as England’s and the Proteas were all out for 207 in the 40th over.
England next plays Pakistan on Monday. South Africa remains at the Oval to meet Bangladesh on Sunday.
