Adair brothers lead Ireland to historic T20I win vs South Africa, level ...

Ireland vs South Africa: Adair brothers produced a dominant performance to help Ireland secure their first-ever T20I win over South Africa in the second match of the series.

Mark Adair lead Ireland to historic T20I win vs South Africa (AP Photo)

Ireland registered their first-ever T20I victory over South Africa in a thrilling contest at the Zayed Cricket Stadium, leveling the two-match series 1-1. Adair brothers, Ross and Mark, played pivotal roles in helping Ireland secure the 10-run victory. This was Ireland's first T20I win against South Africa and second overall against them in internationals.

Batting first, Ireland posted their highest-ever T20I total against South Africa, putting 195-6 on the board after South Africa won the toss and elected to field. Ross Adair was the star of the Irish innings, smashing his maiden T20I century off 57 balls. His explosive knock, which included nine towering sixes, formed the backbone of Ireland’s innings, with captain Paul Stirling contributing a valuable 52 runs in a 137-run opening stand.

Despite a late collapse that saw Ireland lose 6 wickets for 43 runs, they set South Africa a challenging target of 196. In response, South Africa made a solid start, with Reeza Hendricks scoring his second consecutive half-century (51) and Matthew Breetzke adding another 51. Opener Ryan Rickelton chipped in with a brisk 36 from 22 balls, but the Proteas struggled to keep pace with the required run rate.

Mark Adair’s crucial spell in the 19th over turned the tide in Ireland’s favor. He dismissed Wiaan Mulder and Breetzke in consecutive deliveries before claiming Nqabayomzi Peter later in the over, finishing with impressive figures of 4-31. His efforts, along with Graham Hume’s tight bowling in the final over, where he conceded just seven runs and took a wicket, ensured that South Africa fell short, finishing on 185-9.

The victory marked a significant moment for Irish cricket, as they became the first team to win a match batting first at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in the last eight T20Is played at the venue. It was also their second overall victory against South Africa in international cricket, with their first coming in an ODI.

The two sides will now focus on a three-match ODI series, which begins in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.