Ross and Mark Adair delivered standout performances in the second and final T20I, guiding Ireland to a 10-run victory over South Africa in Abu Dhabi.
South Africa won the toss and elected to bowl against Ireland on Sunday.
Paul Stirling (52 runs off 31 balls, 7 fours, and 1 six) and Ross Adair (100 runs off 58 balls, 5 fours, and 9 sixes) opened for Ireland, delivering a stellar performance as they built a 137-run partnership.
Ireland’s opening stand was broken in the 13th over when Patrick Kruger dismissed skipper Stirling. However, Adair continued to pile on runs. His impressive knock ended in the 17th over when he was dismissed by Wiaan Mulder, having struck 5 fours and 9 sixes.
In the final stages of the innings, George Dockrell (20* off 13 balls, 1 four) and Fionn Hand (4* off 5 balls) remained unbeaten, guiding Ireland to a total of 195/6 at the end of their 20 overs.
Wiaan Mulder led the Proteas’ bowling attack, picking up two wickets in his four-over spell. Lungi Ngidi, Lizaad Williams, and Patrick Kruger each claimed a wicket during their respective spells.
During the run chase, Ryan Rickelton (36 off 22 balls, 1 four, and 4 sixes) and Reeza Hendricks (51 off 32 balls, 6 fours, and 1 six) opened for the Proteas, forming a 50-run partnership.
Graham Hume provided the first breakthrough for Ireland, removing Rickelton in the sixth over.
Besides Hendricks, Matthew Breetzke (51 off 41 balls, 3 fours, and 2 sixes) was the only other batter who put up a significant fight to help South Africa chase down the target.
Ireland’s bowlers showcased an impressive display, taking quick wickets in the second innings. By the end of the 20 overs, Ireland successfully restricted South Africa to 185/9, with Bjorn Fortuin and Lungi Ngidi left unbeaten at the crease, clinching a 10-run victory at Sheikh Zayed Stadium.
Mark Adair was the pick of the bowlers for Ireland, taking four wickets for 31 runs in his four overs, while Hume claimed three wickets, conceding just 25 runs at an economy rate of 6.20.
Ross Adair was named ‘Player of the Match’ and ‘Player of the Series’ for his outstanding performances in the T20I series against the Proteas.
Brief scores:
Ireland 195/6 (Ross Adair 100, Paul Stirling 52; Wiaan Mulder 2/51) vs South Africa 185/9 (Reeza Hendricks 51, Matthew Breetzke 51; Mark Adair 4/31).
