A total of 500 spectators saw 40.2 overs of cricket when South Africa returned to Ireland after 14 years on 11 July, in the first of the three-match ODI series at the Village, Malahide. The two sides will again meet on 13 July for the second game, at the same venue.
South Africa missed Anrich Nortje in the first game, who sustained an injury in West Indies. He is unlikely to be part of the second game as well. Still, they had Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi in their line-up. Barring Rabada (8.2-2-43-2), the other three made a little impact in their last encounter.
South Africa had rested Quinton de Kock and Heinrich Klaasen in the opening contest. They may rest them again, as their backups, Janneman Malan and Kyle Verreynne, as well as the rest of their teammates, did not get the chance to bat because of the relentless rain. In fact, they are expected not to make any changes.
Ireland will be high on confidence ahead of the second game. William Porterfield and Andy Balbirnie both made fifties and looked extremely solid in the middle, though the latter was dropped on 15 by Aiden Markram at first slip, against Maharaj. Harry Tector and Mark Adair, too, were in good touch before rain washed out the contest.
Ireland’s only concern is the form of Paul Stirling, who struggled throughout his 40-ball stay before falling to Andile Phehlukwayo for 13. Their bowling unit was not tested either. Simi Singh and Josh Little, the wicket-takers, will be up against a formidable batting unit.
Head to Head
South Africa have met Ireland six times. They won all five before the last game ended with no result.
Probable XIs
Ireland: William Porterfield, Paul Stirling, Andrew Balbirnie (c), Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wk), George Dockrell, Simi Singh, Andy McBrine, Craig Young, Joshua Little, Mark Adair
South Africa: Aiden Markram, Janneman Malan, Temba Bavuma (c), Rassie van der Dussen, Kyle Verreynne (wk), David Miller, Andile Phehlukwayo, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Lungi Ngidi
Prediction
A tough contest. Probably a South African win.