Ireland registered a memorable win against South Africa in the second T20I of their series, marking their first-ever T20I victory over the Proteas. The game, played at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi, saw Ireland post a formidable total of 195 for 6, thanks to Ross Adair’s explosive century. His knock, coupled with Mark Adair’s 4 for 31, helped Ireland secure an 11-run win and level the series.
Ireland’s Strong Start: Ross Adair’s Century
Ireland’s batting innings was spearheaded by Ross Adair, who notched up his first T20I century, scoring 100 off just 57 balls. This was Ireland’s third century in T20Is, and it came at a crucial moment. Partnering with captain Paul Stirling, Adair set the foundation for a commanding total, sharing a 137-run opening stand with Stirling, who contributed a quick-fire 52. The Irish duo kept South Africa under pressure, finding boundaries and rotating the strike effectively.
Adair’s innings was a spectacle of clean hitting, but it came with a touch of luck. He offered five chances to South Africa during his knock, including an overstepped delivery that should have dismissed him early in the powerplay. Nevertheless, Adair capitalized on his opportunities, smashing nine sixes to lift Ireland to a competitive total.
South Africa’s Bowling Effort
South Africa managed to claw back in the later stages of Ireland’s innings, restricting the total to under 200. Lungi Ngidi was instrumental in the death overs, using his variations to great effect. His slower deliveries and yorker lengths slowed Ireland’s scoring, while Kruger and Williams also chipped in with tight bowling in the final few overs. Ngidi’s 1 for 23 in his four overs played a key role in preventing Ireland from scoring freely at the death.
Despite their late efforts, South Africa still had the daunting task of chasing down 196, a target that would require them to make the highest successful run chase at this venue in T20Is.
South Africa’s Response: A Strong Start
In response, South Africa began their chase positively, with Reeza Hendricks (51) and Matthew Breetzke (51) giving them a solid platform. Hendricks, in particular, looked in fine form, scoring his second consecutive half-century of the series. Breetzke, too, recorded his maiden T20I fifty, keeping South Africa in the hunt.
With nine wickets in hand and 108 runs needed from the last 10 overs, South Africa appeared well-placed to chase down the target. However, the momentum shifted when Mark Adair dismissed Tristan Stubbs, sparking a middle-order collapse that saw South Africa lose five wickets for just 25 runs.
Mark Adair’s Magic: Tearing Through South Africa’s Middle Order
Mark Adair was the architect of South Africa’s downfall. After dismissing Stubbs, Adair took two more crucial wickets in the penultimate over, removing Wiaan Mulder and Breetzke in quick succession. Mulder mistimed a slower ball, skying it to Adair himself, while Breetzke’s attempt to clear long-on ended in Harry Tector’s hands.
Adair’s impressive figures of 4 for 31 effectively sealed the game for Ireland, with Graham Hume adding the finishing touches in the final over. Hume defended 17 runs, picking up two wickets as South Africa finished 11 runs short of the target.
Key Moments and Turning Points
One of the key moments of the match came when Adair rode his luck early in his innings. South Africa had several chances to dismiss him, but failed to capitalize. Lizaad Williams overstepped when he had Adair caught at deep square leg, while Ryan Rickleton couldn’t reach a catchable ball just a few deliveries later. Adair’s resilience and fortune ultimately made the difference, as his century proved to be the game-changer.
Another turning point was Ireland’s bowling in the final overs. After a strong start by South Africa, the Irish bowlers, led by Mark Adair, tightened the screws, applying pressure and picking up wickets at crucial intervals. The Proteas’ middle order failed to withstand the sustained pressure, collapsing in the face of Ireland’s disciplined bowling attack.
FAQs
Ross Adair was the standout player, scoring 100 off 57 balls, while his brother Mark Adair took 4 wickets to help Ireland defend their total.
Ireland scored 195 for 6 in their 20 overs.
South Africa managed to score 185 for 9, falling 11 runs short of the target set by Ireland.
Mark Adair finished with impressive bowling figures of 4 for 31.
The key turning point was Ireland’s bowling in the final overs, with Mark Adair’s three wickets in quick succession breaking South Africa’s middle order.
Conclusion
Ireland’s victory over South Africa in this T20I is a significant milestone in their cricketing history. Ross Adair’s brilliant century and Mark Adair’s four-wicket haul showcased the talent and potential within the Irish squad. This win not only levels the series but also boosts Ireland’s confidence as they look ahead to future international contests.
With South Africa now facing a must-win situation in the final game, it will be interesting to see how they respond. For Ireland, this victory serves as proof of their growing prowess in the shortest format of the game.
