Phil Salt produced one of the most destructive T20I innings in England's history, hammering an unbeaten 141 off just 60 deliveries, as the hosts racked up a world-record 304 for 2 before bundling out South Africa for 158 in 16.1 overs to seal a 146-run victory - their biggest in T20I cricket.
After losing the opening match of the series, England came out with intent at Old Trafford. Salt, opening alongside captain Jos Buttler, wasted no time getting into rhythm. The pair added a jaw-dropping 193 runs for the first wicket in just 12.4 overs, setting the tone for what would become an evening of carnage.
Buttler was equally brutal in his 83 off 30 balls, clearing the ropes seven times before falling to Bjorn Fortuin. But Salt carried on, unfazed and unrelenting, launching England past the 300-run mark with a flurry of boundaries in the final overs. His 141* included 15 fours and 8 sixes, and came at a strike rate of 235.
South Africa's bowlers had no answers. Bjorn Fortuin was the only wicket-taker with two scalps in his four overs.
In response, South Africa's chase never ignited. Although, Aiden Markram (41) and Ryan Rickelton (20) started with 50-run opening partnership, however, the rest bundled in next 108 runs. Bjorn Fortuin played a cameo of 32(16) but South Africa were never in the chase.
Jofra Archer finished with 3 for 25, while Will Jack, Liam Dawson and Sam Curran chipped in with two wickets apiece. The visitors were eventually bowled out in the 17th over — more than 140 runs adrift.
