The Adair brothers were the heroes of Ireland’s first win over South Africa in men’s T20 cricket.
Ross Adair hit a stunning century as Ireland batted first at 195 for 6 in Abu Dhabi.
Younger brother Mark took four wickets, including three in the second over, as Ireland won by 10 runs.
Ireland had suffered heavy defeats in the previous six meetings between the teams in this format, but this win ensured a draw in the two-match series.
The Irish got off to an impressive start, allowing no runs and 59 hits during the power play.
Skipper Paul Stirling and Ross Adair put on 137 for the first wicket before Patrick Kruger removed the former for 52.
Adair hit a 57-ball century that included nine sixes but was dismissed off the next delivery to leave Ireland 174 for 3 in the 17th over.
Just 20 more runs from the remaining 20 deliveries would have been enough for World Cup runners-up South Africa (196) to win the series.
South Africa’s opener Ryan Rickelton hit four sixes in his 22-ball 36, while Reeza Hendricks and Matthew Breetzke were both outstanding, scoring 51 runs.
They looked to be on their way to victory when they entered the 19th hole needing 23 from 12 balls.
But Mark Adair bowled Wiaan Mulder and dangerman Breetzke off the first three deliveries before conceding four runs off the next two balls and skittled Nqabayomzi Peter to end the over.
This left South Africa needing 18 runs in the final six sets and Graham Hume taking a wicket while conceding just seven runs to secure a famous victory.
All matches of the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup will be broadcast live on Sky Sports from October 3 to 20. Australia is seeking its third consecutive win and seventh overall, while England is seeking its first win since the inaugural event in 2009.
Sky Sports+ has officially launched and will be integrated into Sky TV, streaming service NOW and the Sky Sports app. This will give Sky Sports customers access to over 50% more live sport at no additional cost this year. Find out more here.
