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Headingley, Leeds: Pitch report, records and highest scores in ODIs for England vs. South Africa

Xaviour Raymond

Headingley, Leeds: Pitch report, records and highest scores in ODIs for England vs. South Africa image

Headingley in Leeds is one of the most batting-friendly venues for white-ball cricket in England. The surface often offers true bounce, allowing stroke-makers to play their shots freely, while the shorter boundaries add to the scoring opportunities. Seamers can still find movement early on, especially under overcast conditions, but overall, batters enjoy the upper hand here.

Out of the ODIs played at this ground, chasing sides have enjoyed decent success, making the toss an important factor. High scores are common, and fans can expect another run-fest when England and South Africa face off in the series opener.

How many ODIs has Headingley hosted?

Headingley has hosted 47 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) so far.

How many spectators can Headingley hold?

Headingley has a seating capacity of around 17,000 spectators, making it one of England’s mid-sized international cricket venues.

Headingley: Pitch report

The surface at Headingley in Leeds is preferred by the batters, making it one of the better scoring grounds in England. Another high-scoring encounter could be on the cards, as stroke-makers generally find plenty of value for their shots here.

Spinners are likely to come into play in the latter stages of the game, with the pitch offering some grip and turn as it wears down. Opting to bowl first after winning the toss could be a wise decision, given the chasing advantage at this venue.

Headingley: Average scores and toss results in ODIs

Total Matches

47

Matches won batting first

18

Matches won bowling first

26

No result

3

Average 1st innings Score

228

Average 2nd innings Score

210

What happened in the previous ODI at Headingley?

The last ODI played at Headingley took place on September 21, 2024, when England faced Australia. Batting first, the visitors posted a strong total and went on to dominate the contest. Australia eventually sealed a 68-run victory over England at Leeds.

What is the highest score by a team at Headingley in ODIs?

The highest team score in ODIs at Headingley was made by England, who posted 351/9 in 50 overs against Pakistan on May 19, 2019. England went on to win that match at Leeds, setting the benchmark for big totals at the venue.

What is the lowest score by a team at Headingley in ODIs?

The lowest team score in ODIs at Headingley is 93 all out, made by England against Australia on June 18, 1975. England were bundled out in just 36.2 overs and went on to lose the match at Leeds.

What is the highest individual score at Headingley in ODIs?

The highest individual score in ODIs at Headingley belongs to Sanath Jayasuriya, who smashed 152 runs off 99 balls for Sri Lanka against England on July 1, 2006. His blistering knock included 20 fours and 4 sixes at a strike rate of 153.53, lighting up Leeds with one of the most destructive innings ever played at the venue.

What is the best bowling figure at Headingley in ODIs?

The best bowling figures in ODIs at Headingley were recorded by Waqar Younis, who took 7 wickets for 36 runs in 10 overs for Pakistan against England on June 17, 2001. His devastating spell remains unmatched at Leeds and is one of the finest bowling performances in ODI history.

Which batter has the most runs at Headingley in ODIs?

The batter with the most runs at Headingley in ODIs is Eoin Morgan (England). Between 2010 and 2019, he scored 477 runs in 9 innings at an impressive average of 59.62, including 1 century and 4 fifties, with a highest score of 107.

Which bowler has the most wickets at Headingley in ODIs?

The bowler with the most wickets at Headingley in ODIs is Adil Rashid (England). From 2015 to 2024, he picked up 15 wickets in 8 innings at an average of 27.00 and a best of 3/47, making him the leading wicket-taker at the venue.

All stats via ESPN cricinfo

ENG vs. SA betting odds and tips, 1st ODI

According to Dafabet, England head into the first ODI as favourites at 1.60, while South Africa are priced at 2.33. The odds reflect England’s home advantage and strong recent record at Headingley, but South Africa’s recent form against Australia makes them a dangerous opponent.

 

Odds* (click here to bet)

England

1.60

South Africa

2.33

*odds are correct at the time of publish

TSN’s Top 3 Predictions:

  • Jos Buttler to score 40+ runs – The England captain has a strong ODI record against South Africa and thrives in home conditions.
  • Jofra Archer to take 2+ wickets – Returning to lead the pace attack, Archer’s strike power with the new ball and at the death makes him a top pick.
  • Both teams to score 250+ runs – Given Headingley’s batting-friendly conditions and the depth in both lineups, a high-scoring contest is on the cards.

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Xaviour Raymond

Xaviour Raymond leads The Sporting News' betting content in India and is a content writer with a Master’s in Mass Communication and over two years of experience working with various firms. A passionate sports enthusiast, he focuses on football and cricket content tailored for Indian fans with a sharp eye on detail and opportunities for betting value.