Captain Andy Balbirnie scored 102 from 117 balls as Ireland registered their first-ever win over South Africa with a 43-run victory in the second ODI at Dublin.
Andy Balbirine in the post match presentation after the historic win:
“I’m extremely proud of the character we showed. We knew it was a pretty tough pitch to take 10 wickets on, but the way we stuck at in the middle and towards the death was a credit to them (the bowlers).”
“We’ll enjoy this – it’s the first time we have beaten them and It is a huge day for cricket in Ireland. We will have a couple of beers and enjoy this, but at the same time we have to look to Friday when we could potentially win a series. (www.stocktargetadvisor.com) ” He added
Match highlights
The hosts posted 290-5 from their 50 overs with the stunning century from Balbirinie, followed by a 79-run knock from Harry Tector and a quickfire 45 from George Dockrell to help Ireland post a challenging total. Ireland scored 103 runs in their last 10 overs against the quality South African attack with the likes of Rabada and Nortje.
Chasing 291, the visitors were under pressure from the start, losing Aiden Markram to Craig Young in the fifth over. And then Josh Little dismissed Temba Bavuma in the 11th over. A 108-run stand between Janneman Malan and Rassie van der Dussen brought back South Africa into the game. The wicket of J Malan and Van der Dussen in quick succession swung the match back in Ireland’s way. Mark Adair, Josh Little, and Andy McBrine each picked up two wickets for Ireland. Balbirine was named man of the match for his match-winning knock.
They outplayed us – Losing captain Temba Bavuma, in the post match presentation
“Big up to Ireland, they outplayed us and showed up on the day. We didn’t take it lightly, but they outplayed us in all facets. Their fielding was impressive. They nailed their batting and bowling skills too, and we need to do a lot of work.”
“We created chances with the ball but our fielding let us down, we set higher standards than that. The momentum was always on their side. No partnerships for us either, other than Rassie and Malan. A lot of conversations need to happen and need to translate to execution on the field.” He added
Ireland leads the three-match ODI series 1-0. The first ODI was abandoned due to rain. The third match of the series will be played on 22nd July. Ireland will look to continue the same momentum and finish on a high note by winning the final game on Friday.
