Eoin, Faf, Stokes: Who Said What on England’s Win vs South Africa

England defeated South Africa by 104 runs in the first match of the World Cup.

(Photo Altered By The Quint)

Hosts and pre-tournament favourites England thrashed South Africa by 104 runs to start their campaign on a winning note on Thursday, 30 May, in the ICC World Cup 2019.

English all-rounder Ben Stokes impressed with his all-round performance as he scored 89 runs, picked up two wickets and pulled off a stunner in the deep. “Yeah, good catch, great feeling and to do that in front of that crowd as well it was one of those moments that you just try to take in,” Stokes said after the match.

Another English sensation jofra Archer too, made himself count on his World Cup debut, picking up three South African batsmen, rattling them with his raw pace and bounce.

“Having someone like Jofra coming into the team now with his pace and skill level is great. Everyone talks about the X-factor and he has definitely got it so the future is bright for him as a player and I hope it is in an England shirt,” Stokes said, appreciating Archer.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis admitted they were outplayed in all facets of the game by England, adding that his side needs to move on quickly from the drubbing.

“As much as we are disappointed, we will want to learn from it quickly and put it to bed. We want to move on from it quickly," he said.

South Africa witnessed a bad start to its chase when veteran opener Hashim Amla was forced to retire hurt after being hit on the head.

The right-hander later returned but by then Jofra Archer-led England bowling attack had already caused the damage.

"The flow of the innings unfortunately started with Hashim coming off. When you are chasing a big score like 312, you need a good start to settle the dressing room," Du Plessis said.