Tristan Stubbs’ maiden ODI century propelled South Africa to a resounding 174-run victory over Ireland, securing the Proteas’ series triumph with a match to spare. The 24-year-old Stubbs unleashed an explosive 112 off 81 deliveries, adorned with eight boundaries and three towering sixes, as South Africa amassed a formidable 343-4 in their allotted 50 overs.
Ireland’s response crumbled under the weight of the Proteas’ onslaught, as they were dismissed for a paltry 169 with nearly 20 overs remaining. The defeat marked their second consecutive heavy loss, following a 139-run setback in the series opener.
Stubbs, who had impressed with a 79 in the first match, continued his ruthless form on Friday. He reached his century in just 75 deliveries, exposing the deficiencies of the Irish bowling attack despite their rotation of seven bowlers.
The Proteas’ middle order provided ample support to Stubbs. Kyle Verreynne contributed a solid 67 off 64 balls, while Wiaan Mulder chipped in with a brisk 43 off 34 deliveries. At the top of the order, Ryan Rickelton added to his 91 from the opening fixture with a valuable 40.
“I thought in the first game, myself and ‘Ricks’ got out back to back. Today I didn’t want that to happen,” Stubbs explained. “That was the big focus. I thought they bowled quite well. They made us hit to the big side. We were rotating nicely and that helped us get the runs.”
The only concern for South Africa was the injury to skipper Temba Bavuma, who was forced to retire with an elbow injury sustained while attempting to avoid a run out. Bavuma had scored 35 when he was forced to leave the field, and he remained off the field during Ireland’s innings, with Rassie van der Dussen taking over the captaincy.
“I think I aggravated an old injury on my elbow. We will get to know in the next few days. Right now, I am at the mercy of the doctors,” Bavuma said.
Ireland’s reply began disastrously, with openers Andy Balbirnie and Paul Stirling dismissed cheaply, leaving the team reeling at 7-2 after three overs. The Proteas continued to make regular breakthroughs, but tailenders Craig Young (29 not out) and Graham Hume (21) provided some entertainment with a 52-run last-wicket partnership.
South Africa fast bowler Lizaad Williams, who had claimed a career-best 4-32 in the first match, continued his impressive form with figures of 3-36 from five overs.
“It was a tough day at the office,” said Stirling.
The three-match series concludes at the same Abu Dhabi venue on Monday.
