By News Editor 
Ireland secured a thrilling 10-run victory over South Africa in the 2nd T20I at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi on September 29, 2024, leveling the 2-match series 1-1. The win came on the back of an outstanding century by Ross Adair, who blazed his way to a superb 100 off 58 balls. Ireland posted a competitive total of 195/6 in their 20 overs, and despite some strong resistance from South Africa, the Irish bowlers held their nerve to restrict the Proteas to 185/9.
The Player of the Match award went to Ross Adair, who not only contributed heavily with the bat but also played a key role in giving Ireland the upper hand in the series decider.
Key Highlights:
- Ross Adair’s Magnificent Century: Adair smashed an incredible 100 off 58 balls, featuring 5 fours and 9 sixes. His aggressive approach helped Ireland build a formidable total.
- Paul Stirling’s Supporting Knock: Skipper Paul Stirling provided a solid platform at the top with a fiery 52 off 31 balls, setting the tone for a high-scoring game.
- South Africa’s Counter-Attack: Despite a daunting target of 196, South Africa made a strong start with Ryan Rickelton scoring 36 off 22 and Reeza Hendricks continuing the charge with 51 off 32 balls. Matthew Breetzke also added a crucial 51 off 41, but their efforts weren’t enough to take the team over the line.
- Ireland’s Bowling Discipline: Mark Adair was instrumental with the ball, taking 4/31, including the key wickets of Hendricks, Breetzke, and Stubbs. Graham Hume chipped in with 3/25, maintaining pressure in the middle and death overs.
- South Africa’s Collapse: After a promising start, South Africa lost wickets at crucial junctures, with Adair and Hume cleaning up the lower order. Despite a strong batting line-up, South Africa fell short by 10 runs.
Key Moments:
- Ross Adair’s Explosive Century: Adair’s innings was the highlight of the match, with the opener smashing the South African bowlers to all parts of the ground. His calculated aggression put Ireland in a commanding position.
- Paul Stirling’s Powerplay Blitz: Stirling’s quick-fire 52 ensured that Ireland got off to a strong start, adding 137 runs for the first wicket with Adair.
- South Africa’s Middle-Order Stumble: South Africa’s middle order failed to capitalize on the strong foundation laid by Rickelton and Hendricks, with wickets tumbling at regular intervals.
- Mark Adair’s Match-Winning Spell: Adair’s four-wicket haul was crucial in stemming the flow of runs and turning the game in Ireland’s favor.
Brief Scores:
Ireland: 195/6 in 20 overs (Ross Adair 100, Paul Stirling 52, Wiaan Mulder 2/51)
South Africa: 185/9 in 20 overs (Reeza Hendricks 51, Matthew Breetzke 51, Mark Adair 4/31, Graham Hume 3/25)
Result: Ireland won by 10 runs
Player of the Match: Ross Adair (Ireland) – 100 (58)
Ireland’s victory was a testament to their all-round team performance, with Ross Adair’s blistering century and Mark Adair’s lethal bowling leading the way. South Africa, despite a valiant effort, couldn’t match the intensity of the Irish side. With the series drawn 1-1, both teams will take positives and areas of improvement into future encounters.