Andy Balbirnie-led Ireland stuns South Africa in their first-ever ODI victory over them. Ireland made history by defeating the Proteas by 43 runs in the second ODI of the three-ODI series at The Village in Dublin.
The visitors were bowled out for 247 in the 49th over after failing to chase down the 291-run total. Janneman Malan led the Proteas in scoring with a 96-ball 84. Rassie van der Dussen contributed 49 runs to a 108-run third-wicket stand. South Africa’s run chase was derailed when both set batsmen were dismissed in the space of seven deliveries. Temba Bavuma’s men were struggling to keep up with the required run rate and were losing wickets in quick succession.
A first win for Ireland Men over South Africa – well done, lads!#IREvSA #BackingGreen ☘️🏏 @playing11app pic.twitter.com/3gCwSWJ1Rn
— Cricket Ireland (@cricketireland) July 13, 2021
Earlier, Balbirine made his sixth ODI century, which was followed by Harry Tector’s 79-run knock and George Dockrell’s quickfire 45 to help Ireland achieve a fighting total against South Africa. Balbirine was chosen man of the match after scoring 102 runs off 117 balls. The opener hit 10 fours and two sixes in his match-winning innings.
“We were put in on a greenish wicket, and they had good bowlers. The way our guys bowled at the death and the middle was amazing. It was a win that we really needed. I thought we outfielded them today, which made the difference. Tector’s freedom while batting was a match-winning,” Balbirine said in the post-match presentation.
Balbirnie goes big!
SCORE: https://t.co/db5fBstZ0r#IREvSA #BackingGreen ☘️🏏 @CoinDCX pic.twitter.com/tR94a5UuQR
— Cricket Ireland (@cricketireland) July 13, 2021
The ODI series is currently 1-0 in favour of Ireland. The second innings of the first ODI was rained out. Bavuma, the losing captain, said that the visitors outplayed them in every aspect of the game.
On July 16, South Africa will have the opportunity to tie the series against Ireland. A three-match T20I series will begin on July 20.