South Africa secured a dominant 139-run victory over Ireland in the first ODI in Abu Dhabi, thanks to a blistering half-century from Ryan Rickelton and impressive bowling from Lizaad Williams, Bjorn Fortuin, and Lungi Ngidi.
After opting to bat, South Africa’s innings was anchored by wicketkeeper-batter Rickelton, who scored 91 off 102 deliveries, hitting seven fours and three sixes. His opening partner, Tony de Zorzi, struggled to make an impact, managing just 12 runs before falling to Mark Adair in the seventh over. However, Rickelton continued to pile on the runs, supported by Tristan Stubbs, who contributed a valuable 79 from 86 balls, including two fours and four sixes.
While Rickelton and Stubbs shone, the rest of South Africa’s batting lineup struggled to make a significant contribution. Lungi Ngidi added a late 20* from 17 balls to push South Africa to 271/9. Adair was the standout for Ireland’s bowling attack, claiming four wickets in his 10-over spell. Craig Young also impressed, taking three wickets for 45 runs, while Graham Hume and Andy McBrine chipped in with a wicket each.
In response, Ireland’s batting faltered. None of their batters managed to surpass the 30-run mark, and the team was bowled out for just 132 in 32 overs. George Dockrell (21), Curtis Campher (20), and Andrew Balbirnie (20) were the only players to offer any resistance, but they were unable to form any substantial partnerships.
Lizaad Williams led the South African bowling effort, taking four wickets in a devastating spell, while Ngidi and Fortuin picked up two wickets each, helping to seal the comprehensive victory.
Rickelton’s exceptional batting earned him the ‘Player of the Match’ title as South Africa took a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series.
Brief Score:
South Africa 271/9 (Ryan Rickelton 91, Tristan Stubbs 79; Mark Adair 4/50)
Ireland 132 (George Dockrell 21, Curtis Campher 20; Lizaad Williams 4/32)
(ANI)