In the first ODI between South Africa and Ireland in Abu Dhabi, South Africa’s captain Temba Bavuma chose to bat first. The match comes after South Africa’s recent 2-1 loss to Afghanistan in their previous series.
South Africa’s Team Changes
For this match, South Africa made a few key changes:
- Ryan Rickelton and Rassie van der Dussen returned to the playing XI after missing the Afghanistan series.
- The team is looking for a strong start, hoping to take advantage of the conditions by batting first.
Ireland’s Team Updates
Ireland also brought in some fresh faces for the ODI series:
- Andy Balbirnie returned to the team after being dropped for the T20I series and is set to open alongside Paul Stirling.
- Gavin Hoey, a promising leg-spinner, received his first ODI cap.
- Stephen Doheny will take up the role of wicketkeeper for this match.
Pitch Conditions and Expected Score
There is extra grass on the pitch, which might assist the bowlers early on, but a par score is expected to be around 260-270 runs. This should make for a competitive match, with both teams aiming to capitalize on their strengths.
Playing XIs
Ireland:
- Paul Stirling (Opener)
- Andy Balbirnie (Opener)
- Curtis Campher
- Harry Tector
- Stephen Doheny (Wicketkeeper)
- George Dockrell
- Mark Adair
- Andy McBrine
- Gavin Hoey (Debutant)
- Graham Hume
- Craig Young
South Africa:
- Ryan Rickelton (Wicketkeeper)
- Tony de Zorzi
- Temba Bavuma (Captain)
- Rassie van der Dussen
- Tristan Stubbs
- Wiaan Mulder
- Andile Phehlukwayo
- Bjorn Fortuin
- Lizaad Williams
- Lungi Ngidi
- Ottneil Baartman
South Africa will aim for a strong total, while Ireland looks to challenge them with disciplined bowling and fielding efforts.