After winning the toss and choosing to bat for the second time in the series, South Africa’s intent was evident from the outset. The openers set a solid foundation, racing to 51 without loss inside the PowerPlay and immediately putting pressure on the Irish attack. The first breakthrough came in the 10th over when Sune Luus was dismissed by Aimee Maguire, but the momentum remained firmly with the home side.
Tunnicliffe anchored the innings with a composed half-century, combining effectively with Laura Wolvaardt in a 38-run partnership that steadied South Africa through the middle overs. The acceleration came late in the innings, where a blistering 47-run stand between Dane van Niekerk and Marizanne Kapp shifted the match decisively. Chloe Tryon also contributed with aggressive striking as South Africa surged to an imposing total of 201 for five. Despite the heavy run flow, Maguire emerged as Ireland’s most effective bowler, finishing with figures of three for 43.
Ireland’s chase never fully gained traction. The opening overs were cautious to the point of stagnation, yielding just 15 runs from the first four overs. Gaby Lewis briefly injected momentum with three consecutive boundaries, but the PowerPlay produced only 31 runs, leaving Ireland significantly behind the required rate.
South Africa tightened their grip immediately after, with Tryon making a decisive impact by removing both Irish openers in quick succession. A determined 76-run partnership between Orla Prendergast and Leah Paul offered Ireland some resistance, but the mounting asking rate proved too steep. Nonkululeko Mlaba broke the stand in the 17th over by dismissing Paul, effectively ending Ireland’s hopes of a late surge.
Ireland closed their innings on 136 for three after 20 overs, falling 65 runs short of the target. The result underlined South Africa’s depth in both batting and bowling and secured an unassailable lead in the series.
With this comprehensive win, South Africa reaffirmed their dominance on home soil, showcasing balance, power and control across all departments. The series victory not only reflects their current form but also strengthens their confidence as they continue building consistency against international opposition.
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