The Adair brothers starred with the bat and ball on Sunday evening as Ireland claimed an historic victory over South Africa to level the T20 International series being played in Abu Dhabi.

The Irish beat the Proteas by 10-runs in the second T20 International to draw level in the three-match series and all is on the line as they head into the decider.

Ross Adair - Cricinfo

Batting first, Ross Adair scored 100 off 58 balls to lead the Irish to 195/6 in their allotted 20-overs. Adair was in destructive form with the willow as he hit five fours and nine sixes. He was well supported by the captain, Paul Stirling, who in turn scored 52 off 31 during the 137-run partnership for the first wicket. Wiaan Mulder was the pick of the South African bowlers with 2/51 in his 4-overs.

In reply, Reeza Hendricks and Matthew Breetzke each scored 51-runs as South Africa was restricted to 185/9 in their 20-overs, while Mark Adair took 4/31. Graham Hume was also excellent with the ball with his 3/25 in 4-overs.

The Proteas coach, Rob Walter, said it was a disappointing performance by his team.

“Obviously it's massively disappointing and I suppose in a way that is T20 cricket,” said Walter.

“Things can turn around quite quickly. It takes a dominant performance from one person in opposition that can put you behind the eight-ball.

“But still, you know, we should have got over the line tonight, there is no doubt about that. I thought we clawed ourselves back in the field excellently well. The bowlers bowled very well at the death. I think I cannot fault the effort in the field. We made a few errors out there, but certainly the effort was there.

“Then with the bat, we were in a great position to win the game. We could have been a bit more clinical, but also, I felt that they did execute the death plans very well and made it tough for us to get it done.”

The third and final T20 International in Abu Dhabi will be played on Wednesday.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport