Breetzke Draws Inspiration from Northants to Set ODI Record at Lord’s

Breetzke Draws Inspiration from Northants to Set ODI Record at Lord’s

South African batter Matthew Breetzke continued his remarkable start to international cricket with another standout performance, scoring 85 runs to help his team secure a dramatic five-run victory over England at Lord’s — and with it, South Africa’s first ODI series win in England since 1998.

Returning from a hamstring niggle, Breetzke not only top-scored in the second ODI but also etched his name into the record books as the first player to score 50 or more in each of his first five ODI innings. His record-breaking run includes scores of 150, 83, 57, 88, and now 85, giving him a staggering average of 92.60 in the format.

“It’s a bit worrying — it can only go downhill from here,” Breetzke joked after the match. “But it’s been a special start. I’ve played on some really good wickets, and I just hope it keeps going. Honestly, I was a bit bleak not to get to a hundred — it would've been cool to be on the [honours] board at Lord’s.”

From iPad to Iconic Innings

Breetzke revealed he had watched Northamptonshire’s thrilling T20 Blast quarter-final win over Surrey on his iPad from his hotel room the night before the ODI, drawing inspiration from the county team he represents in England.

“I was watching the quarter-final in bed on YouTube — it was nerve-wracking. But I’m really happy for the boys and looking forward to meeting them on Finals Day.”

Having scored 863 runs for Northants in the last two T20 Blast seasons, Breetzke recently signed a new two-year all-format deal with the county and hopes to be available for Finals Day at Edgbaston next Saturday. That fixture falls between South Africa’s second and third T20Is against England — and with Breetzke not currently in the T20I squad, he is optimistic about returning to his county side for the occasion.

Chemistry with Stubbs, Confidence from the Top

Breetzke’s innings at Lord’s was bolstered by a 147-run stand with Tristan Stubbs, a former schoolmate from Grey High School, further showcasing South Africa’s emerging middle-order strength.

“We played a lot of cricket together in our younger days,” Breetzke said. “We’ve got a really good relationship, and hopefully that continues.”

He also credited South Africa’s current positive environment, particularly under head coach Shukri Conrad, for lifting the team’s confidence — a belief built further by their World Test Championship win in June.

“There’s no grey area with Shukri — he’s very clear on what he wants. That clarity has helped us a lot.”

Staying Grounded Amid a Stellar Start

Despite his explosive entrance onto the international stage, Breetzke is staying grounded, acknowledging the mental and physical demands of a packed calendar.

“It does get to you sometimes, but I just look at it like I’m so grateful to be playing a sport for a living. I try to take every opportunity and make the most of it. It doesn’t last forever.”

With South Africa aiming for a 3-0 whitewash in the final ODI in Southampton on Sunday, and a potential T20 Blast Finals Day appearance on the horizon, Breetzke’s remarkable rise is showing no signs of slowing down.

Quick Stats:

  • Matthew Breetzke in ODIs: 5 innings – 85, 88, 57, 83, 150

  • ODI Average: 92.60

  • Notable Achievement: First player to score 50+ in each of first five ODI innings

  • Next Match: 3rd ODI vs England, September 7, Southampton

  • Potential Appearance: T20 Blast Finals Day, September 13, Edgbaston