South Africa's strikes in the powerplay and at the end of Ireland's innings meant that although Ireland scored their second-highest T20I total against them, they did not have enough. Ireland were pegged back after almost every acceleration but a fourth-wicket stand of 59 runs off 41 balls between Curtis Campher and Neil Rock anchored the innings.

Ryan Rickelton and Reeza Hendricks blasted South Africa to an eight-wicket win over Ireland in a Twenty20 here. Rickelton's career-best 75 and Hendricks' 16th fifty powered South Africa to 178-2 in the 18th over in reply to Ireland's 171-8 on Friday.

I t's time for a fresh start in the shortest format for both Ireland and South Africa after they experienced contrasting fortunes at this year's T20 World Cup. While Ireland (admi

South Africa have won the toss and opted to field first. The Proteas will be looking to bounce back on their tour of the UAE after losing their ODI series against Afghanistan. Ireland will also fancy their chances.

South Africa will be in action in the T20 format for the first time since the T20 World Cup final defeat to India. Aiden Markram will be leading a young side bereft of several of its first-choice players while Ireland will be playing with a new order,

South Africa rested their most experienced fast bowler Lungi Ngidi on a surface with a significant grass covering, fielding an attack with four seam and three spin options as they chose to bowl in the series opener against Ireland.