Fifties for Amla and Du Plessis as South Africa see off Northamptonshire

London: Senior batsmen Hashim Amla and Faf du Plessis both hit half-centuries as South Africa completed their preparations for a One-day international series against England with a narrow 13-run win over Northamptonshire at Wantage Road on Sunday. Amla made 59 and du Plessis 50, with David Miller's 51 the other main contribution to a modest Proteas total of 275 for seven. Northamptonshire then slumped to 215 for eight before Tim Sole's 54 gave them a chance. The hosts were nine wickets down and needing 27 off 24 balls when debutant Sole twice hoisted Andile Phehlukwayo over long-off for six. Suddenly, Northamptonshire's target was 14 off three overs but experienced Proteas fast bowler Morne Morkel ended the match by having Sole caught at third man off a short ball. South Africa face England in the first of three ODIs at Headingley on Wednesday. (AFP)