Tristan Stubbs leads Proteas to mammoth ODI win over Ireland to clinch series

Tristan Stubbs stole the show with a sensational maiden international century, finishing unbeaten on 112* off 81 balls in just his sixth ODI match.

His knock, supported by Kyle Verreynne's solid 67 and valuable contributions from Ryan Rickelton (40), Wiaan Mulder (43), and Rassie van der Dussen (35), helped the Proteas post an imposing total of 343/4 in their 50 overs.

Despite a scare when Temba Bavuma retired hurt with an elbow injury after scoring 35, South Africa's middle order ensured they set a challenging target for Ireland.

In reply, Ireland struggled from the outset. Their top and middle order failed to capitalise on starts, with eight batters reaching double figures but none able to convert them into a meaningful contribution.

Tail-enders Craig Young (29*) and Gavin Hoey (23) provided some late resistance, but Ireland were eventually dismissed for 169 in just 31 overs.

The Proteas' bowlers were clinical, with Lizaad Williams taking 3/36, and Lungi Ngidi and Bjorn Fortuin both chipping in with two wickets apiece.

All six bowlers contributed to Ireland's collapse, though a frustrating 52-run last-wicket stand delayed the inevitable.

With this emphatic victory, South Africa secured the series win ahead of the final match, a dead rubber, scheduled for Monday in Abu Dhabi. 

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