DUBLIN, July 14: Ireland recorded its first-ever victory over South Africa, beating the visitors by 43 runs after captain Andy Balbirnie’s century in the second One-Day International between the two sides.
Ireland, although a Test nation now, having got that status four years ago, are still new to international cricket and rely on meagre resources and a handful of matches.
Yet they never fail to surprise. Their 43-run win over South Africa in Dublin in the second ODI on Tuesday night is one of those wins where they have shown to punch above their weight.
Balbirnie scored 102 from 117 balls and Harry Tector added 79, including four sixes, as Ireland posted 290-5 in the second of their three-match ODI series at The Village on Tuesday.
The Proteas had never lost an ODI to Ireland and now must win on Friday to avoid a series defeat.
The first match of the series ended in a no-result after persistent rain on Sunday.
Opener Janneman Malan scored 84 to lead South Africa and Rassie van der Dussen added 49 before the Irish bowlers found their rhythm as the Proteas fell to 247 all out.
Mark Adair, Josh Little and Andy McBrine each picked up two wickets for the hosts. Balbirnie’s tally included 10 fours.
South Africa won the toss and chose to field, as they did in Sunday’s match, when Balbirnie top-scored with 65 off 79 balls.
Andile Phehlukwayo took 2-73 off 10 overs for South Africa. (AP)
