The Proteas got a little bit of a scare before eventually clinching a reasonably comfortable win in the series opener. They’ll be aiming for a more comprehensive win on Friday.
After a South African win in the opener we will see if the short break and staying at the same venue favours the Proteas or Ireland.
Ireland vs South Africa | 5 August 2022 | The Bristol County Ground, Bristol | 19:30
To Win Match
Ireland 52/10 | Tie 25/1 | South Africa 2/15
Ireland
Ireland tried to contain South Africa with the ball and very nearly kept the Proteas within their reach for a chase in the series opener.
They will take some positives from that clash like promoting Lorcan Tucker to three where he was able to give their effort a great shot in the arm.
Questions remain about the ability of Paul Stirling and Andy Balbirnie to get the Irish effort going.
Harry Tector and the all-rounders give Ireland finishing power, but they need to improve against spin.
South Africa
Reeza Hendricks notched his fourth T20I half-century in a row and was acknowledged as man of the match.
Aiden Markram has rediscovered his best white-ball form and it has also seen him strike at a far higher rate and if this continues it can only be good for the Proteas.
Tristan Stubbs is among the most exciting talents in the world, let alone South Africa and is a player that we can’t get enough of right now.
South Africa’s bowlers are still the great strength and they can turn a game on its head.
Verdict: South Africa 2/15
South Africa should close out the series out in Bristol on Friday evening.
