Ireland secures maiden ODI win over South Africa

The hosts won the second ODI by 43 runs at Malahide on Tuesday.

Skipper Andrew Balbirnie's century helped the Irish post a match-winning total.

Captain Andy Balbirnie scored a stylish century as Ireland recorded its first ever One-Day International victory over South Africa with a win by 43 runs in the second match of their five-game series in Malahide on Tuesday.

Balbirnie stroked 102 from 117 balls as the home side posted 290 for five in their 50 overs, before restricting the tourists to 247 all out in its reply to secure the historic victory and a 1-0 lead in the series after Sunday’s opener was washed out.

We've done it!

A 43-run win we'll never forget.#IREvSA#BackingGreenpic.twitter.com/frUPddGzcO

— Cricket Ireland (@cricketireland) July 13, 2021

After being sent in to bat, opener Balbirnie received excellent support from Harry Tector (79 from 68 balls), while there was also a flourish from George Dockrell (45 from 23) at the end.

South Africa, who again rested key batsman Quinton de Kock, battled to keep up with the run-rate throughout and when opener Janneman Malan (84 from 96) and Rassie van der Dussen (49 from 70) fell in quick succession with the score on 160, its chances of victory slipped away. The third match in the series will be played at the same venue on Friday.