Ireland vs South Africa 3rd ODI Highlights Ireland Stunning 69 Run Victory Over South Africa

In a remarkable finish to their ODI series, Ireland Men secured a commanding 69-run victory over South Africa Men in Abu Dhabi on Monday, wrapping up their 2024 international campaign in style. The triumph came with 23 balls to spare, ending the series on a high note despite South Africa having already claimed the series after winning the first two matches.

Having tied the preceding T20I series, Ireland produced a superb all-round display to ensure they concluded their tour with a convincing win. Paul Stirling, Ireland’s captain, led from the front with an impressive knock of 88 from 92 deliveries, setting the stage for his team’s formidable total of 284-9 in their allotted 50 overs.

Stirling, finally winning the toss after four unsuccessful attempts, elected to bat and flourished in partnership with Andrew Balbirnie. Together, they put on a 101-run opening stand, marking Ireland’s highest opening partnership against South Africa in ODI cricket. Balbirnie fell just shy of his half-century, scoring 45 before being caught by Tristan Stubbs off Lizaad Williams' bowling.

Ireland's innings was further bolstered by Curtis Campher (34) and a rapid 60 from Harry Tector, who showed excellent form late in the innings. Lorcan Tucker also chipped in with 26, as Ireland set a competitive target for South Africa. Williams was the pick of the South African bowlers, taking 4-56 in his 10 overs.

South Africa's response faltered early, as Ireland's bowlers quickly seized control. Mark Adair and Graham Hume struck early blows, dismissing both South African openers within the first three overs. Adair then removed stand-in captain Rassie van der Dussen, leaving the Proteas in disarray at 10-3.

Kyle Verreynne (38) and Jason Smith (91) attempted to stabilize the innings, with Smith playing a valiant knock. However, wickets fell at regular intervals, with Craig Young and Fionn Hand keeping the pressure on. Smith's half-century kept South Africa in the game, but as he neared his century, Graham Hume delivered the crucial breakthrough, dismissing him and securing the victory for Ireland.

Ireland’s bowlers shared the spoils, with Hume finishing with figures of 3-29, Young taking 3-40, and Adair chipping in with 2-54. This comprehensive team effort not only ended Ireland’s series on a positive note but also added a memorable win to their international record.

Match Summary:

• Ireland Men: 284-9 (50 overs; P Stirling 88, H Tector 60, A Balbirnie 45; L Williams 4-56)
• South Africa Men: 215 (46.1 overs; J Smith 91; G Hume 3-29, C Young 3-40, M Adair 2-54)
• Ireland won by 69 runs