Tue Oct 08 00:53:24 UTC 2024: ## South Africa Crush Ireland by 174 Runs, Clinch Series
**Abu Dhabi, UAE:** Tristan Stubbs smashed his maiden ODI century, leading South Africa to a crushing 174-run victory over Ireland in the second ODI on Friday, securing the three-match series with a game to spare.
The 24-year-old Stubbs, who scored 79 runs in the opening match, remained unbeaten on 112 off just 81 balls, including eight boundaries and three sixes, as the Proteas amassed a mammoth 343-4 in their 50 overs.
Stubbs formed a crucial 103-run partnership for the third wicket with Kyle Verreynne (67) and followed it up with a 92-run stand for the fourth wicket alongside Wiaan Mulder (43). Ryan Rickelton also contributed a crucial 40, laying the foundation for the Proteas’ dominant performance.
In reply, Ireland were bowled out for 169 with nearly 20 overs to spare, suffering their second heavy defeat in the series after the first ODI loss by 139 runs. The Irish batting faltered against the South African attack, scoring only three runs in 75 balls.
South Africa’s only concern was a potential injury to captain Temba Bavuma, who was forced to retire hurt after sustaining a blow to the elbow while attempting a run-out. Bavuma had scored 35 runs before his departure.
“I think my old injury in my elbow flared up,” Bavuma said. “We’ll see in the next few days. At the moment, I’m in the hands of the medical staff.”
Ireland’s batting collapse began early, losing openers Andy Balbirnie (1) and captain Paul Stirling (5) within the first three overs. While tailenders Craig Young (29 not out) and Graham Hume (21) tried to salvage some pride, the damage had already been done.
Lungi Ngidi took 3-36 in five overs, while Lizaad Williams, who took 4-32 in the previous match, continued his good form.
“It was a tough day at the office,” Stirling admitted.
The third and final ODI will be played on Monday at the same venue in Abu Dhabi.
First Piper 