Written by Jennifer Achen
The third ODI of the T20I series, held at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi, ended on a high note as Ireland defeated South Africa by 69 runs. South Africa dominated the first two matches, winning the first ODI by 139 runs and the second by 174 runs. Throughout the series, Ireland won the toss for the first time in five attempts, was elected to bat, and performed brilliantly, scoring 284 for nine in 50 overs. Medium pacers Graham Hume, Craig Young and Mark Adair took three wickets as they defeated South Africa for 215 in 46 overs, despite Jason Smith scoring an astonishing 91 runs off 93 balls. Obtained.
Leeza Hendricks replaced South Africa captain Themba Bavuma, who was unable to participate in the third ODI due to a left elbow injury. The man of the match award went to Ireland captain Paul Stirling, who was top scorer with 88 runs off 92 balls with eight boundaries and three sixes.
Coach Ottneil Baartman dismissed Curtis Campher for 34 after scoring a quick run with a half-century against Sterling. Stirling improved his record of 4s and 6s to 8s and 3s, but was bowled by Bartman and fell short of 100 points.
Mark Adair drove Ryan Kyle to the slip cordon in the first over and trapped Rassie van der Dussen with three overs to go. Veraine took 6-4 with a knock of 38/36 and then took the out leg with the wicket in the 13th over after Craig Young missed a flick. In the 14th over, Smith failed to score off the first nine balls, but reached his maiden half-century with his sixth over midwicket off 63 balls.
South Africa’s Lizard Williams was named Player of the Series. He took 3 wickets in 46 overs. Harry Tector made 60 off 48 balls and was out in the final over, scoring his 11th ODI fifty.
The innings ended in 47 overs, giving Ireland their second ODI win against South Africa.
