The Proteas women beat Ireland by 56 runs on Tuesday in Solihull to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series. Gareth Stevens reports.After two unsuccessful chases in a row against England, South Africa were asked to bat first in their clash with Ireland. The middle order stuttered once again, but with the impetus given to the innings by Chloe Tryon’s 28 off just 12 deliveries, the Proteas women managed to reach 127-5 in their 20 overs.

It was a competitive target, but the bowlers would still have to perform to defend it. Disciplined bowling and sharp fielding ensured early wickets, and from there, it always looked a bridge too far for the Irish.

The South Africans sealed their first international victory of their tour to the UK by dismissing Ireland for 71. It meant that Mignon du Preez’s charges claimed a crushing 56-run victory and lead the three-match series 1-0.

During the impressive victory, Dane van Niekerk became the first South African lady to do the double of taking 30 wickets and scoring 500 runs in T20Is. It’s an achievement that should set an example for the younger members of the squad, but her celebrations will have to be put on hold. Ireland and South Africa will take the field for the second match of the series this evening, before playing the final T20I of the series tomorrow.

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