The third ODI between Ireland and South Africa in Abu Dhabi on Monday was a historic game of cricket for the Irish Cricket Team. Because it was only the second time that they beat the Rainbow Nation in the 50-over format after a brilliant batting display. South Africa were below-par on the field in the first innings but they had an exhilarating moment on the field, which caught the attention of the world.
It happened when former South Africa captain JP Duminy, who is the current batting coach of the South African men’s team, came on the ground for fielding due to a number of South African players down with tiredness and exhaustion. He came to field in the final over of the first inning and was seen diving around, which gave the Deja vu feeling to the fans around the world.
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Watch: Batting Coach JP Duminy fielding and diving around in the third IRE vs SA ODI in Abu Dhabi
South Africa dealt with a few injuries before the third game; there were some injuries in the camp. Captain Temba Bavuma missed the final ODI due to an elbow injury, while the opener missed the last two games because of a knee injury. All-rounder Wiaan Mulder went on for personal reasons that left South Africa with no other choice.
JP Duminy had to step on the field in the final over to replace the exhausted bowler. That turned the clocks for the fans, who saw one of their former stars diving around. Duminy retired from international cricket in 2019 and was named the full-time batting coach in March 2023. He represented South Africa in 46 Tests, 199 ODIs, and 81 T20Is in his 15-year career between 2004 and 2019.
Coach JP Duminy fielding for South Africa pic.twitter.com/DTppCnT2Cz
— cricket station (@ShayanR84472894) October 7, 2024
Speaking of the game, after two poor batting displays, Ireland went on to bounce back well. They posted a challenging total of 284/9 in 50 overs in the third game. Captain Paul Stirling played well for his 88 and added 101 runs for the first wicket with Andrew Balbirnie (45 off 73). Harry Tector gave the team a great finish with his 60 off 48.
Lizaad Williams took 4/56 with the ball. In reply, South Africa kept losing wickets from the start. They were 79/5 in the first 20 overs. Jason Smith, who was playing his second ODI, showed a great fight and added small partnerships. But unfortunately, he got out on 91 off 93 balls. With his wicket, South Africa were bowled out for 215 runs, handing a 69-run win to Ireland.
