Wed Oct 02 22:35:24 UTC 2024: ## South Africa Dominate Ireland in Abu Dhabi ODI Opener
**Abu Dhabi, UAE:** A brilliant century stand between Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs rescued South Africa from an early collapse, leading them to a resounding 139-run victory over Ireland in the first of three ODIs at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Wednesday.
South Africa, electing to bat first, found themselves in trouble early, losing three wickets for just eight runs in the Powerplay. However, Rickelton and Stubbs steadied the ship with a crucial 152-run partnership. Rickelton, agonizingly short of a maiden century, fell for a well-made 91, while Stubbs followed soon after for a blistering 79.
The Irish bowlers, led by a four-wicket haul from Mark Adair, fought valiantly, but the South African duo’s impressive display of counter-attacking batting proved too much to handle.
In reply, Ireland were bowled out for a paltry 132 in 31.5 overs, succumbing to a disciplined South African bowling attack. Lizaad Williams starred with 4-32, while Lungi Ngidi, Bjorn Fortuin, and Ottneil Baartman picked up two wickets each.
George Dockrell top-scored for Ireland with 21, but the rest of the batting order failed to offer any resistance.
The second ODI in the series is scheduled for Friday at the same venue, with the final encounter taking place on Sunday.
First Piper 