Evidently, the face offs between South Africa National Cricket Team and the England Cricket Team excites the cricket fans so much. Notably, it is one of the oldest and popular cricket rivalries of all times. The matches between these two prominent teams are marked by unforgettable moments, intense competition and significant milestones. Moreover, you might want to know more about the matches between these teams in depth. Right? Well, in this blog, you will be provided with all the relevant and complete information about this topic. You just need to stick around with this blog till the end of the discussion. This blog is all about the South Africa National Cricket Team vs England Cricket Team Timeline.
South Africa National Cricket Team vs England Cricket Team Timeline: Beginning of the Rivalry
For the first time, the South Africa cricket team played against the England cricket team in 1888-1889. The England team went to South Africa and marked the beginning of their cricket rivalry. In addition to this, the first test was played in Port Elizabeth in March 1889. In that match, England won by 8 wickets. This series built the foundation of a long and popular rivalry between these two teams.
Initially, South Africa struggled to compete with the England team. England’s team was more experienced than South Africa. In addition, South Africa lost most of their early matches, including the first two Test series against England in 1889 and 1895-96. Moreover, these matches played an important role as they helped South Africa to gain valuable experience and make their team stronger.
South Africa National Cricket Team vs England Cricket Team Timeline: South Africa’s first victory
The 1906 Test series marked a turning point in the rivalry when South Africa won the first Test match against England in Johannesburg. Not only this, South Africa won the series 4-1. This victory was a precious and memorable moment for the South Africa cricket team as they defeated one of the best cricket teams in the world.
South Africa National Cricket Team vs England Cricket Team Timeline: Interwar period
After the 1st World War, the rivalry between these two teams continued further. In the 1922-1923 Test series held in South Africa, the South African team won the series 2-1. This series showcased their strength as a potential team. Moreover, England remained calm during that time. Moreover, in 1935-36, South Africa went to England to play a five-match Test series. However, the series ended in a draw, with three matches being drawn. This period saw the rise of the South Africa cricket team with several legendary players such as Herbie Taylor and Bruce Mitchell. These two players played a major role in strengthening their team.
Post War Era
After World War 2, the cricket rivalry between England and South Africa resumed. The post-war era marked strong performances from both the teams. In addition, South Africa went to England in 1947 and 1951. Moreover, England visited South Africa in 1948-1949. However, the teams were evenly matched and the series ended in a draw. In addition, there was a rise of South Africa in the 1940s and 1950s. The 1964-65 Test series was the last played between these two countries. Moreover, England won the series 1-0, with four drawn matches. However, in 1970, South Africa was banned from international cricket due to its apartheid policies which ended its cricketing rivalry with England.
Removal and ban and resumption of Cricket
South Africa’s cricket rivalry was restored in 1991 after the end of apartheid. The teams played against each other in a one-off Test match in 1994 in England, making the official resumption of their cricketing rivalry. Moreover, the Test match was played at Lord’s in July 1994. In this match, England won by 8 wickets, but this match was significant as it marked South Africa’s return to international cricket.
2000-2010 Period
The 2000s period was marked by the rise of Graeme Smith as South Africa;s captain. He led the team in several notable moments against England. The teams played with each other in various Test and ODI series.
The 2003 series was one of the most memorable series when South Africa went to England. However, both the teams showcased exceptional cricket skills and the series ended in a 2-2 draw. Moreover, in 2004-2005, South Africa hosted a five match test series, which was won by England by 2-1.
The 2008-2009 series
The Test series of 2008-2009 between England and South Africa was a turning point in the rivalry. South Africa won the series 2-1 under the captaincy of Graeme Smith. Moreover, this win was significant for South Africa as it marked their return to the top tier of world cricket. In addition to this, South Africa’s bowlers such as Dale Steyn played a crucial role in the victory of South Africa.
The COVID-19 and Recent Encounters
The COVID-19 pandemic disturbed the cricket rivalry of South Africa and England and lead to the postponement of several series. However, in the late 2020s, the cricket rivalry between these two teams resumed and England went to South Africa to play the series. Moreover, in 2021, South Africa visited England for a test series. The series was full of intense emotions and competitive spirit. However, it was won by England by 2-1 where Joe Root and Ben Stokes played great roles in the victory.
Final words
In brief, South Africa National Cricket Team vs England Cricket Team Timeline is discussed thoroughly in this blog. The teams have played numerous matches against each other and restored the rivalry several times. The matches were full of unforgettable moments, legendary players and intense competition. This cricket rivalry between England and South Africa is expected to continue and rise further. Tell us your opinion on this rivalry in the comments section. See you later in the next blog. Further, if you still have queries or suggestions on this topic, you can drop them in the comment box.
FAQs
Who won the rivalry between South Africa and England?
There were various periods of dominance of both the countries. However, most of the series and matches are won by England.
From when the rivalry between these two countries started?
The rivalry between these two started with their first test match held in 1888-89.
Who were the top players?
England top players – Joe Root, Ben Stokes
South Africa top players – Graeme Smith, Dale Steyn
