Ireland vs South Africa Prediction: South Africa were whitewashed in last series

Ireland and South Africa are going head to head in the Match 1 of T20 Series at Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on 27th September 2024. South Africa were whitewashed in the last series. Who will win this game of cricket?

South Africa form

South Africa are not in top shape going into the game and have had a very challenging series against West Indies, which they lost 3-0. Ranked sixth in the ICC T20 rankings, South Africa seeks redemption in this game by having a better chance of winning the series. A high-scoring game is likely from Reeza Hendricks, who has provided promising form against Afghanistan with scores of 17 and 18 in his last two ODIs, to go with what needs to be trepidation for South Africa: He's not in great touch. Still, he'll look to get every bit out of his batting when someone needs it, especially after pulling off 44 in one of the last two T20 matches against West Indies. South Africa is expected to unveil some young talent since the majority of its regular players are over 30 years old. The series will give the team more visibility to stake their claims with Lungi Ngidi likely to lead the bowling line.

Predicted Lineup for South Africa

Paul Stirling (c), Ross Adair, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Harry Tector, Gareth Delany, Curtis Campher, Mark Adair, George Dockrell, Graham Hume, Craig Young, Ben White

Ireland Form

Ireland is experimenting with different combinations after a disastrous outing at the 2024 T20 World Cup. It will miss some of its known stalwarts - either injured or due to commitments and cannot be available for this series. This will be an experience for them - not been part of an ODI for ages.

Curtis Campher is looking to make a big impact with bat and ball, breaking partnerships with the bat, with all-rounder capability. Mark Adair is another player who has looked in good form all last season, scoring quickly when needed in the past.

Ireland is an underdog for this series, but they can do some shocks for this series.

Ireland Predicted Lineup

Aiden Markram (c), Reeza Hendricks, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Tristan Stubbs, Jason Smith, Wiaan Mulder, Andile Simelane, Bjorn Fortuin, Lungi Ngidi, Ottneil Baartman, Lizaad Williams

Expert Tips & Prediction

Ireland has not played a single T20I match since the World Cup, where they couldn't even manage to win a single game, which dragged them out of the World Cup. Though South Africa has made a few great changes in their side, they will still be a stern opponent. The tournament seems to start when Ireland has to begin as the underdog and may face an attacking situation in the opener. Our prediction is for South Africa to win.