Mon Oct 07 11:41:01 UTC 2024: ## South Africa Clinch Series with Crushing Victory Over Ireland
Abu Dhabi, UAE – Tristan Stubbs smashed a maiden century in a dominant performance as South Africa routed Ireland by 174 runs on Friday, clinching the three-match ODI series with a game to spare.
Stubbs, 24, remained unbeaten on 112 off 81 balls, including eight fours and three sixes, as the Proteas piled up a massive 343-4 in their 50 overs.
The Irish bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, with Stubbs sharing crucial partnerships with Kyle Verreynne (67) and Wiaan Mulder (43). Ryan Rickelton also contributed with a solid 40.
“I didn’t want to get out early back-to-back like in the first game,” said Stubbs. “They bowled well, making us hit to the big side, but we rotated the strike nicely and that helped us get the runs.”
The only disappointment for the Proteas was the injury to captain Temba Bavuma, who retired hurt with an elbow injury sustained while trying to avoid a run out. Bavuma, who was on 35 at the time, will undergo further assessments in the coming days.
Ireland’s chase never got going, with openers Andy Balbirnie (1) and Paul Stirling (5) back in the pavilion early. The Proteas continued to take wickets regularly, with Craig Young (29 not out) and Graham Hume (21) providing some late resistance with a 52-run last-wicket stand.
Lizaad Williams, who claimed a career-best 4-32 in the previous game, took 3-36 for South Africa.
“It was a tough day at the office,” said Stirling.
The final game of the series will take place at the same venue in Abu Dhabi on Monday.
First Piper 