Mon Oct 07 18:14:40 UTC 2024: ## South African Coach JP Duminy Fields for Exhausted Team in Abu Dhabi Heat
**Abu Dhabi, October 7, 2024:** The scorching heat and humidity of Abu Dhabi took its toll on the South African team during their third and final ODI against Ireland on Monday. With several players suffering from fatigue and sore bodies, white-ball batting coach JP Duminy was called upon to take up fielding duties towards the end of the Ireland innings.
The match itself saw Ireland post a competitive 284 runs after electing to bat first. Captain Paul Stirling led the way with a brilliant 88 runs off 92 balls, while Harry Tector also contributed a half-century. South Africa, struggling at 18/3 at the time of writing, are in a precarious position as they chase the target.
The absence of regular captain Temba Bavuma, who is out with an elbow injury sustained in the second ODI, adds to South Africa’s woes. Reeza Hendricks replaced him in the playing XI with Rassie van der Dussen leading the side.
Despite the challenging conditions, the series result is already decided with South Africa holding an unassailable 2-0 lead. The T20I series, played prior to the ODIs, ended in a 1-1 tie.
The tour was initially planned to be held in Ireland but was shifted to the UAE due to infrastructure constraints. Ireland, lacking a permanent home stadium, faces challenges with temporary facilities and rental costs.
First Piper 