In a thrilling first ODI between Ireland and South Africa, held at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, Lizaad Williams stole the spotlight with his bowling and a memorable celebration after dismissing former Irish captain Andrew Balbirnie. The match, part of the Ireland vs South Africa series in the UAE, saw South Africa claim a convincing 139-run victory, but it was Williams’ performance, especially his unique reaction to Balbirnie’s dismissal, that captured the attention of the crowd.

Andrew Balbirnie’s struggle and Lizaad Williams’ perfect delivery

The crucial moment came in the 8th over of Ireland’s innings. Balbirnie, who had been struggling to find rhythm, faced the sixth ball from Williams, only to misjudge a full delivery just outside off-stump. Balbirnie attempted a drive on the up, but with minimal foot movement, he left a considerable gap between bat and pad. The ball kissed the inside edge and crashed into the off-stump, sending the bails flying. Balbirnie, who never looked fully settled at the crease, was dismissed for 20 off 28 balls, with two fours and a six to his name.

Lizaad Williams’ unique celebration lights up the game

Williams, who was visibly excited, immediately broke into a unique celebration that added to the drama of the dismissal. Instead of the usual fist pump or roar, Williams celebrated in his own style, wearing a virtual crown after pushing his leg down. This moment of exhilaration was met with cheers from the Sout??h Afr?ican players and fans alike, adding a touch of flair to his already impressive performance. The celebration appeared to be a personal moment of triumph, reflecting the significance of the breakthrough for the team.

Also READ: IRE vs SA 2024, ODI Series – Broadcast, Live Streaming details | When and where to watch in India, South Africa, Ireland, Pakistan & other countries

Here’s the video:

Lizaad Williams 4 fer vs Ireland, 1st ODI.

Good to see young talents stepping up👏

pic.twitter.com/A8jnbswjGR

— ∆мαɳ🇿�?(@MarkramBot) October 3, 2024

Williams’ impact on the game was significant, as he went on to finish with figures of 4/32 in 6.5 overs, dismantling the Irish middle order and ensuring South Africa’s dominance. Ireland’s batting collapsed under pressure, with only George Dockrell offering some resistance with a score of 21. They were bowled out for 132 in just 31.5 overs.

Earlier in the match, South Africa posted a competitive total of 271/9 in their allotted 50 overs, thanks to standout performances from Ryan Rickelton, who scored 91, and Tristan Stubbs with 79. Mark Adair was Ireland’s standout bowler, claiming 4/50. However, it was Williams’ bowling and unforgettable celebration that became the talk of the game.

Also READ: Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs and Lizaad Williams star in South Africa’s thumping win over Ireland in 1st ODI

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South Africa claimed a comprehensive victory in the first ODI against Ireland in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), winning by 139 runs at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium. The Proteas showcased an all-around team performance, headlined by a brilliant 91-run knock from Ryan Rickelton and a devastatin??g bowling display by Lizaad Williams, to secure a 1?-0 lead in the three-match series.

South Africa’s strong start

After winning the toss and electing to bat, South Africa set a challenging target of 271/9 in their 50 overs. Opener Ryan Rickelton was the standout performer for the Proteas, scoring a measured 91 off 102 balls, including seven fours and three sixes. His innings provided the foundation for South Africa’s total after early trouble in the top order.

South Africa lost Tony de Zorzi (12 off 14) and captain Temba Bavuma (4 off 4) cheaply, with Ireland’s bowlers getting early breakthroughs. Rassie van der Dussen was dismissed for a duck, leaving South Africa reeling at 39/3. However, Rickelton and middle-order batter Tristan Stubbs (79 off 86) built a crucial 152-run partnership for the fourth wicket, steadying the innings and allowing South Africa to recover.

Stubbs contributed significantly with his ag??gressive stroke play, smashing 2 fours and 4 sixes. His partnership with Rickelton helped South Africa regain momentum. Late contributions from Bjorn Fortuin (28 off 34) and Lungi Ngidi (20 not out off 17) boosted the total, taking South Africa to a competitive score.

For Ireland, Mark Adair was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with figures of 4/50 in his 10 overs. He consistently troubled the South African batters, picking up cr??ucia?l wickets, including the prized scalp of Stubbs. Craig Young also had a good outing, taking 3/45 in his 10 overs, while Graham Hume (1/42) and Andy McBrine (1/46) chipped in with important breakthroughs.

Despite their best efforts, Ireland’s bowlers couldn’t prevent South Africa from putting up a solid score on the board.

Ireland’s batting collapse

Chasing 272, Ireland’s innings never really got going, as they struggled against South Africa’s disciplined bowling attack. Williams was lethal with the ball, claiming 4/32 in his 10 overs and breaking through Ireland’s top order with pace and precision. Ngidi provided solid support, taking 2/35, while Bjorn Fortuin (2/28) and Wiaan Mulder (1/11) also contributed.

Opener Paul Stirling was dismissed for just 2 runs in his 400th international appearance, while captain Andy Balbirnie managed a fighting 20 off 28 balls, including 2 fours and one six. Curtis Campher also added 20 runs, but Ireland’s middle order crumbled under pressure. Harry Tector (12 off 9) and Stephen Doheny (3 off 8) were unable to settle in, leaving the Irish innings in tatters??.

George Dockrell (21 off 32) and Adair (12 off 22) tried to offer some resistance in the middle order, but it wasn’t enough to recover from the early damage. Ireland was eventually bowled out for 132 in 31.5 overs, falling 139 runs short of the target.

South Africa defeated Ireland? by 139 runs in the first ODI 🏏

– Excellent bowling performance from South Africa 👏#cricket #IREvSA #southafricacricket #RyanRickelton #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/0Y1xLtkHUZ

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) October 3, 2024

Player of the Match

Ryan Rickelton was named Player of the Match for his crucial 91, which set the tone for South Africa’s commanding performance.

The second ODI is scheduled for Friday, Octobe?r 4, at the same venue, where Ireland will hope to boun??ce back and level the series, while South Africa will aim to continue their winning momentum.

Also READ: IRE vs SA 2024, ODI Series – Broadcast, Live Streaming details | When and where to watch in India, South Africa, Ireland, Pakistan & other countries

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The Ireland vs South Africa ODI series is set to commence on W??ednesday, October 2. All three ma??tches will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.

South Africa, currently ranked third in the ICC men’s ODI team rankings, will be aiming to maintain their dominance against Ireland, who are ranked 12th. However, Ireland will enter the series with a boost of confidence after their historic T20I victory over South Africa in Abu Dhabi on last Sunday.

Paul Stirling will captain the Irish side in the upcoming ODI series. Ireland’s squad also includes key players like Mark Adair, Curtis Campher, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker and Craig Young.

Temba Bavuma-led South African team, on the other hand, will be looking to bounce back from their first-ever T20I defeat against Ireland. The Proteas will be keen to regain their winning form and solidify t?heir position in the ODI rankings.

The ODI series promises to be an excit?ing contest between two teams?? with contrasting strengths.

IRE vs SA: Head to Head Record in ODIs

Matches play?ed: 08 | Ireland won: 01 | South Africa won: 06 | N??o result: 01

IRE vs SA 2024, ODI series: Fixtures

• 1st ODI: October 2 – 11:30 GMT/3:30 pm local/ 5:00 pm IST
• 2nd ODI: October 4 – 11:30 GMT/3:30 pm local/ 5:00 pm IST
• 3rd ODI: October 7 11:30 GMT/3:30 pm local/ 5:00 pm IST

Also READ: IRE vs SA – Ireland’s best playing XI for the ODI series against South Africa

Squads

Ireland: Andrew Balbirnie, Paul Stirling (c), Curtis Campher, Harry Tector, ?Lorcan Tucker (wk), George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Andy McBrine, Craig Young, Fionn Hand, Graham Hume, Matthew Humphreys, Gavin Hoey, Neil Rock, Stephen Doheny

South Africa: Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, Rassie van der Dussen, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne (wk),?? Wiaan Mulder, Andile Phehlukwayo, Bjorn Fortuin, Nqaba Peter, Lungi Ngidi, Ottneil Baartman, Nandre Burger, Jason Smith, Lizaad? Williams

Broadcast and Live Streaming details

• India: Fan Code
• South Africa: Super Sport
• Ireland: TNT Sports
• United Kingdom: TNT Sports
• Pakistan: Tapmad
• MENA Countries: Etisalat
• Rest of the World: Cricket Ireland YouTube Channel

Also READ: IRE vs SA 2024 – South Africa’s best XI for the ODI series against Ireland

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.