Africa’s sole representatives at the 2019 Cricket World Cup, South Africa got off to a losing start against hosts, England in the first game of the six-week tournament.

Ben Stokes scored the highest with 89 as the hosts made a competitive total of 311 for eight after being sent into bat.

Jofra Archer took two early wickets and South Africa never looked likely to reach their target, bowling out in the 40th over for 207 to give England, tipped to win the World Cup the perfect start.

South Africa, who have never won the 50-over tournament arrived for the latest edition with high hopes. The Proteas, who have lost in the semi-finals four times are ranked third behind India.

“We were outplayed in all three departments. Jofra Archer took two wickets up front and Hashim Amla as well. So it was basically three down,” South Africa’s Du Plessis said after the match.

“I thought 300 was par but there were some really good batting performances from England,” he added.