South Africa VS Ireland 2nd ODI Match Predictions. The second One Day International (ODI) between Ireland vs South Africa (IRE vs SA) is set to take place at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on October 4, 2024, at 11:30 AM GMT. The game is a part of the three-match series between the two teams, with South Africa leading after a dominant win in the first ODI. This article will provide you with match predictions, Dream11 team, fantasy tips, and a detailed pitch report to help you prepare for the upcoming clash.
Ireland vs South Africa Match Preview
South Africa enters the second ODI with a confident 1-0 lead after defeating Ireland by a whopping 139 runs in the first match. The Proteas were exceptional in all departments, with significant contributions from Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs, both of whom played crucial innings. The bowling attack led by Lizaad Williams and Lungi Ngidi dismantled Ireland’s batting lineup, preventing any serious resistance from the Irish side.
On the other hand, Ireland struggled to find momentum in the first match, especially with the bat. Paul Stirling and Andrew Balbirnie will need to step up in the second ODI to lead their team to a comeback and keep the series alive. The Irish bowlers, too, will have to be more disciplined, as their inability to restrict South Africa’s batsmen played a crucial role in the first match’s outcome.
Pitch Report: Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi
The pitch at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium offers a balanced environment but tends to favor bowlers, especially spinners and pacers, as the match progresses. Batters may find it difficult to maintain a consistent scoring rate as the ball slows down, demanding adaptability and skill to navigate the conditions effectively.
In the first innings, the pitch generally favors the batsmen, but as the game progresses into the evening, bowlers—especially pacers—will get more assistance, making it tricky for the team chasing. Captains winning the toss may prefer to bat first to set a competitive total.
IRE vs SA Dream11 Prediction for Today’s Match
If you’re planning to build your Dream11 team for the IRE vs SA 2nd ODI, here’s a breakdown of the best picks:
Wicketkeeper
- Ryan Rickelton (South Africa): A top-order batsman in fine form, Rickelton is a must-pick for your Dream11 team. He scored a brilliant 91 in the first ODI.
- Lorcan Tucker (Ireland): He is a strong wicketkeeper-batsman who can provide stability in the middle order.
Batters
- Paul Stirling (Ireland): One of Ireland’s most experienced batsmen, Stirling will be key to Ireland’s success.
- Temba Bavuma (South Africa): South Africa’s captain will be looking to lead from the front after a relatively quiet first match.
- Andrew Balbirnie (Ireland): Balbirnie, as Ireland’s top-order batsman, will be crucial in setting a foundation for his team.
All-rounders
- Curtis Campher (Ireland): Known for his ability to contribute with both bat and ball, Campher is essential to Ireland’s chances.
- Andy McBrine (Ireland): Another reliable all-rounder for Ireland, capable of making an impact with both bat and ball.
Bowlers
- Lizaad Williams (South Africa): Williams was instrumental in South Africa’s victory in the first ODI, taking 4 wickets. He will be crucial in the second ODI as well.
- Lungi Ngidi (South Africa): A proven performer, Ngidi’s pace and control make him a top pick.
- Craig Young (Ireland): He can trouble South Africa’s batsmen with his disciplined bowling.
- Bjorn Fortuin (South Africa): A versatile bowler, Fortuin can exploit the conditions at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium.
IRE vs SA Dream11 Captain and Vice-Captain Choices
- Captain: Ryan Rickelton – Rickelton’s 91-run knock in the first ODI makes him a reliable choice for the captaincy role.
- Vice-Captain: Curtis Campher – His all-round abilities make Campher a good pick for the vice-captain slot.
Backup Options
- Lungi Ngidi (Vice-Captain): His ability to take key wickets makes him a solid alternative as vice-captain.
Squads for Ireland vs South Africa 2nd ODI
South Africa
Temba Bavuma (captain), Ottneil Baartman, Nandre Burger, Tony De Zorzi, Bjorn Fortuin, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Nqaba Peter, Andile Phehlukwayo, Ryan Rickelton, Andile Simelane, Jason Smith, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, Kyle Verreynne, Lizaad Williams.
Ireland
Paul Stirling (captain), Mark Adair, Ross Adair, Curtis Campher, George Dockrell, Fionn Hand, Gavin Hoey, Matthew Humphreys, Graham Hume, Neil Rock, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Ben White, Craig Young, Andrew Balbirnie, Andy McBrine.
Ireland vs South Africa Match Prediction
Given the performance in the first ODI, South Africa enters this game as the clear favorite. Their balanced squad, combined with the momentum from the previous victory, gives them an edge. However, Ireland is known for making comebacks, as seen in their T20I series. With a few adjustments, particularly in the batting order, Ireland can challenge South Africa and force a decider in the series.
Predicted Score
- First innings score: 260-280
- Second innings score: 250-265
Predicted Winner
South Africa is expected to win the second ODI based on current form, but if Ireland can regroup and address their weaknesses, they have a shot at leveling the series.
Players to Watch
- Ryan Rickelton: After his commanding 91 in the first ODI, all eyes will be on Rickelton to deliver another match-winning performance.
- Curtis Campher: As an all-rounder, Campher’s contribution with both bat and ball could determine Ireland’s fate.
- Lizaad Williams: After a four-wicket haul in the first match, Williams will be key in breaking Ireland’s batting partnerships early on.
Conclusion
The second ODI between Ireland vs South Africa is expected to be a closely fought contest. South Africa will look to seal the series, while Ireland will be aiming to bounce back and force a decider. With both teams having quality players, it promises to be an exciting encounter at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.