In a gripping encounter at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Ireland edged out South Africa by 10 runs in the second T20I, leveling the two-match series at 1-1. The match was a must-win for Ireland following their loss in the first T20I, and it showcased both the resilience of the Irish team and the exceptional talent of their players, particularly Matthew Humphreys and Ross Adair.

Matthew Humphreys’ decisive dismissal

The drama unfolded in the 14th over of South Africa’s innings when Humphreys delivered a stunning spell of spin bowling. He clean-bowled South African captain Aiden Markram, who had been looking to take control of the match. Markram, attempting a premeditated reverse sweep, misjudged the delivery, which turned sharply and clipped off-stump after flicking his pad. Markram’s dismissal came after scoring just 8 runs off 5 balls, a critical blow to the Proteas’ chase of 196 runs. Humphreys’ bowling was pivotal, showcasing his skill and marking a significant moment in the match.

Here is the video:

YESSS!!!

Matthew Humphreys has cleaned up Aiden Markram!

South Africa need 66 runs from 38 balls

▪️ Ireland 195-6 (20 overs)
▪️ South Africa 130-3 (13.4 overs)

SCORE: https://t.co/DORHHXP6pc
MATCH PROGRAMME: https://t.co/sKRI98cTxO
WATCH: ROI/UK: TNT Sports 4
WATCH ELSEWHERE:… pic.twitter.com/dd4NLKevXh

— Cricket Ireland (@cricketireland) September 29, 2024

Also READ: 5 South African players to watch out for in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

Historic win for Ireland

Ireland, batting first, set a formidable target of 196 runs, finishing their innings at 195/6 in 20 overs. Ross was the standout performer, smashing a remarkable century. He scored 100 runs off just 58 balls, including 5 fours and an impressive 9 sixes, achieving a strike rate of 172.41. Adair’s explosive batting laid a solid foundation for Ireland, putting them in a strong position against the Proteas.

In response, South Africa fought valiantly but fell short, managing to score 185 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their allotted overs. Both Reeza Hendricks and Matthew Breetzke contributed significantly to the chase, each scoring half-centuries. However, their efforts were stifled by Ireland’s bowlers, particularly Mark Adair, who excelled with the ball, taking 4 wickets in his 4-over spell and conceding just 31 runs.

This victory marks a significant milestone for Irish cricket, as it was their first-ever win over South Africa in T20I cricket. Ross’ century earned him the Player of the Match award, and his performance, combined with the bowling heroics of Mark and Humphreys, ensured Ireland leveled the series.

With the series tied 1-1, the two teams now turn their attention to a three-match ODI series, which kicks off on Wednesday, October 2nd. Both sides will be eager to carry their momentum into the 50-over format, with the tour promising more thrilling cricket action.

Also READ: IRE vs SA 2024, T20I Series: Broadcast & Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Pakistan, South Africa, UK and other countries

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