BREETZKE'S HALF-CENTURY IN VAIN FOR THE PROTEAS

Matthew Breetzke’s maiden T20I half-century was not enough to prevent the Proteas from slipping to a 10-run defeat to Ireland in the series decider in Abu Dhabi last night. 

The Durban’s Super Giants top-order batter struck 51 from 41 balls (3x4; 2x6) as the Proteas went in pursuit of Ireland’s 195/6. 

Breetzke was particularly strong through the off-side, striking a few delightful cover drives reminiscent of his elegant stroke play during Betway SA20 Season 2. 

Breetzke shared a 71-run partnership with former Joburg Super Kings opener Reeza Hendricks, who struck his second consecutive T20I half-century, to lay the ideal platform for the Proteas.

Unfortunately, Hendricks spooned a catch to short cover to be dismissed for 51 after MI Cape Town opener Ryan Rickleton had earlier blitzed a quickfire 36 (22 balls, 1x4, 4x6). 

From thereon the Irish held their nerve to close out the contest to claim their first-ever T20I victory over the Proteas with seamer Mark Adair claiming 4/31, including three wickets in the penultimate over. 

Earlier, it was Adair’s younger brother Ross that had set up Ireland’s innings with a maiden T20I century off 58 balls (5x4, 9x6).

He was ably supported by former Pretoria Capitals opener Paul Stirling (52 off 31 balls, 7x4, 1x6) as the pair shared a record 135-run first wicket partnership.