The Adair brothers shone brightly as Ireland secured their landmark victory over South Africa in men’s T20 cricket, marking the first time the team has triumphed over this strong opponent.
Ross Adair captivated fans with a stunning century, leading Ireland to a total of 195 for six while batting first in Abu Dhabi.
His younger brother, Mark, proved to be a game-changer with the ball, taking four crucial wickets, including three in a pivotal 19th over, ultimately ensuring Ireland’s 10-run victory.
Having lost the previous six encounters against South Africa in this format, this win not only signifies a notable comeback but also levels the two-match series.
Iceland’s batting line-up started strong, accumulating 59 runs without losing a wicket during the powerplay.
Captain Paul Stirling partnered with Ross Adair for an impressive 137-run opening stand before Stirling was dismissed for 52 by Patrick Kruger.
Adair’s explosive 57-ball century featured nine sixes, but he was out on the very next delivery, leaving Ireland at 174 for three in the 17th over.
Despite a late surge, Ireland could only manage an additional 20 runs in the last 20 balls, setting South Africa a challenging target of 196 to clinch the series.
South Africa began their innings aggressively, with opener Ryan Rickelton striking four sixes in a rapid 22-ball 36, while Reeza Hendricks and Matthew Breetzke contributed 51 runs each.
Entering the 19th over, South Africa appeared poised for victory, needing 23 runs from 12 balls.
However, Mark Adair executed a remarkable over, claiming the wickets of Wiaan Mulder and the dangerous Breetzke in quick succession, conceding only four runs in the next two deliveries before dismissing Nqabayomzi Peter.
This left South Africa requiring 18 runs in the final over, yet Graham Hume secured the victory for Ireland by taking a wicket and allowing just seven runs to be scored.
The 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup will see every match broadcast live, with Australia aiming for their third consecutive title and England hoping for their first victory since the tournament’s inception in 2009.
