"Isn’t the same team after the T20i final" - Fans react as South Africa suffer their first-ever T20I loss against Ireland in men's cricket
Ireland eked out a 10-run victory over South Africa at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Sunday, September 29, in the second T20I of the ongoing two-match series. The Irish side scripted history, clinching their first-ever T20I win against the Proteas in men's cricket.
South Africa won the toss and chose to field first. Ireland registered an impressive 195-run total, courtesy of opener Ross Adair's stunning 100-run knock. Skipper Paul Stirling also notched up a fine half-century, scoring 52 runs.
Lungi Ngidi was the pick of the South African bowlers, registering figures of 4-0-23-1. Reeza Hendricks and Matthew Breetzke scored 51 runs each in the run chase, while Ryan Rickelton chipped in with a 36-run contribution.
However, apart from the names mentioned above, no other South African batter scored in double digits. The side ultimately finished at 185/9 after 20 overs. Mark Adair shone with the ball for Ireland, recording wonderful figures of 4-0-31-4.
Several fans took to social media to react to South Africa's defeat to Ireland. Here are some of the top reactions:
Many fans lauded Ireland for their fantastic performance in the must-win fixture.
"Fantastic win. Huge congratulations to everyone. A massive win for Irish cricket and thoroughly deserved. Mark Adair superb....Take a bow all and enjoy this....." commented a fan
"Wonderful last few overs when South Africa thought they had it. Credit to the team and the brothers Adairs." wrote another
"What an incredible achievement for Ireland! Beating South Africa for the first time in T20I history is a monumental milestone that highlights the growth and potential of Irish cricket. This victory will surely boost their confidence and inspire the team as they continue to compete on the international stage. A memorable moment for Irish fans and cricket lovers alike!" chimed in yet another
With the 10-run victory in the second T20I, Ireland leveled the two-match series 1-1. South Africa have had a tough time since finishing as the runners-up at the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Following the showpiece event, the side suffered a whitewash defeat at the hands of West Indies in a three-match T20I series. South Africa later lost a three-match ODI series to Afghanistan.
"We felt we were under-par" - Ireland skipper Paul Stirling on his team's 195-run total
At the post-match presentation, Irish captain Paul Stirling suggested that his team felt they had registered an under-par total. He pointed out that the South African bowlers didn't allow them to score freely in the death over.
Hoping to build on the momentum in the upcoming ODI series, Stirling said:
"I think we would have liked 15-20 runs more but they managed to squeeze us in the end again. With the ball, it was a bit less dew so we were able to grip the ball better and made the use of it. You need to spend time at the crease to get the pace of the wicket. With new batters coming in, you always have a chance. Absolutely delighted, over the moon to get a win (against South Africa). We would like to take the momentum into the ODI series coming up."
The two sides will now square off against each other in a three-match ODI series, beginning Wednesday, October 2. All three games will take place at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.