South Africa v England: Charlie Dean stars as Proteas collapse and hosts level ODI series

Tue Dec 10 17:10:06 UTC 2024: ## England Level ODI Series with Clinical Win over South Africa

**Durban, South Africa:** England leveled their ODI series against South Africa with a convincing six-wicket victory, capitalizing on a dramatic South African middle-order collapse. The Proteas, cruising at 72-2, suffered a catastrophic loss of five wickets for just four runs in 12 balls, largely thanks to a hat-trick from England spinner Charlie Dean.

Dean’s exceptional spell, which spanned two overs, ultimately yielded figures of 4-45. Fellow spinner Sophie Ecclestone (3-27) and seamer Lauren Filer (3-32) also contributed significantly to South Africa’s paltry 135 all out in 31.3 overs. Chloe Tryon’s 45 was a lone bright spot for the hosts.

England’s chase was relatively straightforward, with Tammy Beaumont (34) and Maia Bouchier (33) laying a solid foundation. Danni Wyatt-Hodge’s unbeaten 25 guided England to victory in the 24th over. Filer’s early wickets set the tone, troubling South Africa with her pace and dismissing two batters bowled.

South Africa’s captain, Laura Wolvaardt, highlighted the team’s insufficient total, while England captain Heather Knight praised her bowlers’ aggressive performance and the impactful contributions of Filer and Dean. Dean expressed her surprise and delight at achieving a hat-trick. The series decider will take place in Potchefstroom on Wednesday.