It turned out to be a memorable moment for wicketkeeper-batter Tristan Stubbs as he scored his maiden ODI hundred for South Africa.
South Africa secured a resounding 174-run victory in the second ODI against Ireland in Abu Dhabi, thanks to Tristan Stubbs’ maiden century and a collective team effort. The Proteas posted a massive total of 343/4, which proved far beyond Ireland’s reach as they were bowled out for 169, handing South Africa the series.
Winning the toss, South Africa opted to bat first. Openers Temba Bavuma and Ryan Rickelton laid a solid foundation, but it wasn’t until the 10th over that the scoring rate picked up significantly. Bavuma and Rickelton took Craig Young for two sixes and a boundary, pushing the run rate above six for the first time. However, their partnership was cut short when Bavuma retired hurt after injuring his wrist, and soon after, Rickelton (40) was dismissed, chipping one back to the bowler.
Rassie van der Dussen and Kyle Verreynne took over from there, attempting to rebuild the innings. Van der Dussen’s promising start was cut short when he inside-edged a delivery onto his stumps, leaving Verreynne to anchor the innings. Making the most of his opportunity in place of Tony de Zorzi, Verreynne brought up a half-century while Stubbs, on the other end, began setting himself up for something special.
Stubbs steadily built his innings, reaching his fifty in just 45 balls. Together with Verreynne, he pushed South Africa past the 200-run mark. After Verreynne’s dismissal for 67, Stubbs took charge, hammering boundaries at will. His aggressive approach in the final overs saw him bring up a stylish century off 75 balls. South Africa added 61 runs in the last five overs, with Stubbs finishing unbeaten on 112, ensuring a daunting total of 343.
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Ireland’s chase never gained momentum as Lungi Ngidi and Lizaad Williams struck early, removing both openers. Williams, following up on his four-wicket haul in the first ODI, continued to dominate, taking three wickets for 36 runs. Ireland were soon reduced to 44/4, with no way back into the contest. Ottneil Baartman and Andile Phehlukwayo further dented Ireland’s hopes by claiming key wickets.
Despite a late rally from Ireland’s lower order, which added 73 runs, it was too little, too late. Six South African bowlers picked up at least one wicket, demonstrating a well-rounded bowling performance that wrapped up the Irish innings for 169 in 30.3 overs. With this comprehensive victory, South Africa not only sealed the match but also the series.
