Thu Sep 04 18:00:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the text you provided:
**Summary:**
Joe Root’s steady 61 was crucial for England in the 2nd ODI against South Africa at Lord’s after an early wicket. He built partnerships with Ben Duckett (66 runs) and Jacob Bethell (77 runs), anchoring the innings before being dismissed. Root’s innings included eight boundaries and saw him continue his impressive ODI record against South Africa, raising his total runs to 795 runs. Root is also maintaining a consistent record at Lord’s.
**News Article:**
**Root Anchors England’s Innings at Lord’s Despite Early Setback**
*Lord’s, London* – Joe Root’s composed knock of 61 proved vital for England as they faced South Africa in the 2nd ODI at Lord’s. England suffered an early blow, losing Jamie Smith to the very first ball of the innings. Root walked in at 0/1 and immediately took on the responsibility of repairing the innings.
The former England captain formed a 66-run partnership with Ben Duckett, where Root dominated the scoring as Duckett struggled to a 14 off 33 balls. Root then joined forces with Jacob Bethell, who injected some much-needed aggression into the innings. The pair added 77 runs, with Bethell taking on the aggressor role and Root content with rotating the strike.
Root’s innings, consisting of 72 balls, finally came to an end in the 25th over when he was stumped off the bowling of Keshav Maharaj. He hit eight boundaries during his stay at the crease. At the point of his dismissal, England were 147/4.
This innings marks Root’s 43rd ODI half-century in his 182nd match. His solid form continues against South Africa, with his tally now standing at 795 runs in 20 ODIs at an average of 44.16. The Lord’s ground continues to be a favorable venue for Root, with an average of 46.60 with 466 ODI runs from 11 matches.
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