IRE vs SA 2021: Ireland register first-ever ODI victory over South Africa; win by 43 runs

IRE vs SA Dublin ODI: Ireland have defeated South Africa for the first time in seven outings in One-Day International cricket.

During the second ODI of the ongoing South Africa’s tour of Ireland in Dublin, Ireland beat South Africa by 43 runs to cause a major upset. With the first match getting called off due to rain, the hosts have gained a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. It is worth mentioning that this is Ireland’s first-ever ODI victory against the Proteas.

Chasing a 291-run target, all South Africa could manage was 247/10 in 48.3 overs. A 108-run partnership for the third wicket between Janneman Malan (84) and Rassie van der Dussen (49) appeared to have it in it to change the course of the match for the visitors at one point in time but it wasn’t to be.

While Malan failed to continue finding boundaries after hitting seven fours and four sixes, van der Dussen not converting his strike rate of 70 into something impact-generating hurt his team. Barring this duo, no other South African batsman gave the impression of thriving at Malahide.

A quintessential disciplined bowling performance by the home team was led by Andy McBrine picking bowling figures of 7-0-34-2 which included the priced scalps of van der Dussen and Andile Phehlukwayo (2). Apart from McBrine, Mark Adair and Josh Little also picked a couple of wickets each.

Earlier, it was South Africa captain Temba Bavuma who had invited Ireland in to bat first. Having registered his seventh ODI century, Ireland captain Andy Balbirnie led from the front to top-score with 102 (117). Balbirnie was well-assisted by Harry Tector who contributed with 79 (68) comprising of six fours and four sixes.

Twitter reactions on IRE vs SA 2nd ODI

For more cricket-related news, click here.