Ireland made history by defeating South Africa for the first time in T20I cricket, levelling the series 1-1. The match took place at Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi, where Ireland set a formidable target of 196 runs after posting 195-6. Ross Adair starred with a brilliant century, scoring 100 runs off just 57 balls, supported by captain Paul Stirling’s 52.

In response, South Africa fell short, managing only 185-9 despite solid contributions from Reeza Hendricks and Matthew Breetzke, who both scored half-centuries. Mark Adair’s exceptional bowling in the final overs was crucial, as he took four wickets for 31 runs. This victory marks a significant milestone for Irish cricket and sets the stage for an upcoming ODI series against South Africa.

Brief scores

Ireland 195-6 (20 overs; R Adair 100, P Stirling 52; W Mulder 2-51)

South Africa 185-9 (20 overs; R Hendricks 51, M Breetzke 51; M Adair 4-31, G Hume 3-25)