For the first time in T20I history between two Test nations, a team crossed the 300-run mark — and it was England who scripted history. India had held the previous highest with 297/6 against Bangladesh in Hyderabad in 2024.
Playing at Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester, England’s batters produced a batting masterclass, smashing 304/2 in 20 overs against South Africa. This monumental score was powered by Phil Salt’s record-breaking 141 not out off 60 balls, studded with 15 fours and 8 sixes. He surpassed his own England T20 record of 119 against the West Indies at Tarouba in 2023.
Captain Jos Buttler was equally destructive, blasting 83 off just 30 balls at a strike rate of 276.67, with 8 fours and 7 sixes. Jacob Bethell (26 off 15) and Harry Brook (41* off 21) ensured the momentum never dipped, propelling England beyond the historic 300-run barrier.
South Africa, in reply, were blown away for 158 in 17 overs. Skipper Aiden Markram’s 41 was the lone highlight as Jofra Archer returned to form with fiery figures of 3 for 25.
Highest Totals in T20Is vs Full-Member Teams
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304/2 – England vs South Africa, Manchester 2025
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297/6 – India vs Bangladesh, Hyderabad 2024
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283/1 – India vs South Africa, Johannesburg 2024
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278/3 – Afghanistan vs Ireland, Dehradun 2019
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267/3 – England vs West Indies, Tarouba 2023
Highest Totals in All T20Is
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344/4 – Zimbabwe vs Gambia, Nairobi 2024
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314/3 – Nepal vs Mongolia, Hangzhou 2023
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304/2 – England vs South Africa, Manchester 2025
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297/6 – India vs Bangladesh, Hyderabad 2024
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286/5 – Zimbabwe vs Seychelles, Nairobi 2024
Highest Individual Scores for England in T20Is
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141 – Phil Salt vs South Africa, Manchester 2025*
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119 – Phil Salt vs West Indies, Tarouba 2023
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116* – Alex Hales vs Sri Lanka, Chattogram 2014
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109* – Phil Salt vs West Indies, St George’s 2023