South Africa wins the first T20I against Ireland

Reeza Hendricks and Aiden Markram’s half-centuries impelled South Africa to a 21-run triumph in the first of two Twenty20 internationals against Ireland. Hendricks, also featured in his country's new series win upon England, proceeded with his fine structure by making 74 from 53 balls during the day-night match in Bristol to assist the Proteas with 211 for five. The third wicket partnership of Markram and Hendricks for 112 became the match-winning partnership as they gave the side solid ground to stand on. Bowler Gareth Delany guaranteed the wickets of Hendricks and Markram later in the sixteenth over but Lorcan Tucker’s late cameo also could not save the side.

Ireland did show some fire with Tucker’s thumping of 78 from 38 balls while George Dockrell’s 43 but Tabraiz Shamsi and Dwaine Pretorius soon poured water over it to seize the win for South Africa.