South Africa thumped Ireland by 139 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the 3-match ODI series. After Ireland registered their very first T20I win against South Africa in their last encounter, they would have expected to pull-off something similar. However, Ireland were bundled out for paltry 132 while chasing 272 against South Africa at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Lizaad Williams shone with the ball as he picked up four wickets and bowled an eight-over spell to ensure a dominant victory for South Africa. Ryan Rickelton was adjudged as the Player of the Match.
The Proteas won the toss and opted bat first and the key highlight of the innings was the crucial partnership between Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs. The pair rescued South Africa from a precarious 39/3, stitching together a vital 152-run stand. Ireland would have regretted the missed chance to dismiss Stubbs early in his innings, but he made the most of the reprieve, scoring a solid 79, while Rickelton anchored the innings with his 91. Just when it seemed like the momentum was with South Africa, a sudden collapse saw them slide from 191/3 to 212/7.
Ireland lose 1st ODI
IRE vs SA: As it happened
The Ireland pacers used slower balls to good effect on a pitch that offered grip and made strokeplay challenging. South Africa’s lower order put up a decent effort to get the team to 271. There were handy contributions from Fortuin and Lungi Ngidi in the end, with both of them chipping in with scores in the 20s, which ensured that South Africa played out their 50 overs without getting bowled out.
Despite challenging South Africa with their bowling, Ireland couldn’t replicate the same with the batting. Most of the damage was done in the first 15 overs as the new ball was nipping around under the lights and South Africa made the most use of it.
It was a clinical show from South Africa with all-round bowling performance. They would have something to smile about in what has been a tough tour to the UAE so far.
