Ireland achieves historic T20 victory over South Africa

Ireland etched its name in history by defeating South Africa by 10 runs in the second T20I, marking the first time they’ve triumphed over the Proteas in this format, thanks to the extraordinary performance of the Adair brothers.

In the match held in Abu Dhabi on Sunday (September 29), Ireland set a formidable target of 195 runs in their 20 overs. The opening pair delivered an impressive 137 runs before the end of the 13th over. Captain Paul Stirling scored 52 runs off 31 balls, while Ross Adair achieved a stunning 100 runs off 58 balls, hitting 5 fours and a record-breaking 9 sixes for Ireland in T20 Internationals.

Chasing a target of 196 runs, South Africa began well with openers Ryan Rickelton and Reeza Hendricks. However, after Rickelton was dismissed for 36 runs, the South African innings faltered under Mark Adair’s bowling. Reza Hendricks managed to score 51 runs off 32 balls, and Matthew Breetzke added 51 runs off 41 balls to mitigate the defeat.

Mark Adair bowled standout, taking four wickets and effectively sealing South Africa's fate by claiming three crucial wickets in the 19th over. Additionally, Graham Hume and Fionn Hand each contributed with 3 wickets, ensuring a historic victory for Ireland.