South Africa secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match T20I series against Ireland, thanks to a commanding 65-run victory in the second fixture held in Paarl.
Opting to bat first, South Africa’s innings was built on a crucial platform laid by opener Faye Tunnicliffe, who registered her maiden T20I fifty (50 off 40 balls). Tunnicliffe and fellow opener Sune Luus put up a solid 78-run partnership before the fireworks began.
The true acceleration came from Dane Van Niekerk, whose electrifying 19-ball 41 cameo powered South Africa to their second consecutive 200-plus total of the series, ending at 201 for 5. Her knock, which included three fours and three sixes, also saw her break Lizelle Lee’s record for the most sixes (49) hit by a South Africa batter in women’s T20Is. Chloe Tryon added a final punch with an unbeaten 16 off seven balls. Aimee Maguire was the most successful Irish bowler, claiming 3 for 43.
In response, Ireland struggled from the outset to match the required run rate, managing only 33 runs in the powerplay. Though allrounder Orla Prendergast (unbeaten 51 off 43 balls) and Leah Paul (40 off 29 balls) shared a resilient 76-run partnership for the third wicket, the initial deficit proved too large. Tryon also contributed with the ball, dismissing both Irish openers.
Ireland finished their innings well short at 136 for 3, handing South Africa the series win.
