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Predicting Ireland’s Playing XI against South Africa for 3rd ODI

After suffering back-to-back heavy defeats in the ongoing ODI series, Ireland faces the daunting task of salvaging pride in the third and final match against South Africa on October 7 at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi. South Africa have already secured the series after handing Ireland crushing losses in the first two games, winning by 139 runs in the opener and following it up with a massive 174-run victory. 

Ireland’s batting struggles were evident, with Lungi Ngidi and Lizaad Williams dismantling their lineup in the second game, reducing them to 169 runs. Despite these setbacks, Ireland’s skipper Paul Stirling and his men will aim to finish the series on a high. Stirling, along with Andrew Balbirnie, has been one of the consistent performers for Ireland, but they need support from the rest of the lineup to challenge South Africa’s in-form side. 

Here’s a predicted playing XI for Ireland as they look to end their winless run in 2024:

Top Order: Andrew Balbirnie, Paul Stirling ©, Curtis Campher

Predicting Ireland’s Playing XI against South Africa for 3rd ODI
Andrew Balbirnie Paul Stirling and Curtis Campher

The top order will be led by captain Paul Stirling, who has amassed 535 runs in 20 innings since last year. Stirling will be partnered by Andrew Balbirnie at the top, another reliable presence, with 485 runs at an average of 30.31 in 2023-2024. Both openers will be eager to put on a strong start and provide Ireland with a solid foundation. 

Curtis Campher will likely come in at number three. Campher has struggled with scores of 20 and 17 in the first two games, but with over 500 runs in 17 innings since 2023, he has the ability to bounce back and stabilize the innings.

Middle Order: Harry Tector, Stephen Doheny (wk), George Dockrell

Predicting Ireland’s Playing XI against South Africa for 3rd ODI
Harry Tector Stephen Doheny and George Dockrell

Ireland’s middle order will be anchored by Harry Tector, the team’s leading run-scorer since 2023, with 884 runs at a stellar average of 49.11, including three centuries and four half-centuries. Tector has had a quiet series so far, but he remains a key figure for Ireland’s batting hopes. 

Stephen Doheny will serve as the wicketkeeper, although he has been underwhelming with just 165 runs in his last nine innings. George Dockrell will add depth to the middle order, having scored 487 runs in 17 innings at an average of 37.46, and will also provide some much-needed experience.

Lower Order: Mark Adair, Andy McBrine, Gavin Hoey

Predicting Ireland’s Playing XI against South Africa for 3rd ODI
Mark Adair Andy McBrine and Gavin Hoey

The lower order will be spearheaded by Mark Adair, Ireland’s leading wicket-taker with 36 wickets in 24 matches since 2023 at an economy of 5.54. Adair’s all-round capabilities will be vital both with the bat and the ball, especially in applying pressure on South Africa’s strong lineup. 

Andy McBrine, who was the only bowler to offer any resistance in the second ODI, will once again play a critical role in trying to contain the Proteas. Gavin Hoey is likely to complete the lower-order trio, offering further bowling options and contributing with the bat.

Tailenders: Graham Hume, Craig Young

Predicting Ireland’s Playing XI against South Africa for 3rd ODI
Graham Hume and Craig Young

Ireland’s bowling attack will be rounded off by Graham Hume and Craig Young. Hume, with 22 wickets, and Young, with 20 wickets in recent matches, have been fairly consistent, maintaining a collective economy rate of 5.41. However, they will need to step up their game to restrict South Africa’s powerful batting order and prevent another 300+ score. The duo will also be called upon to add any runs they can with the bat as Ireland looks to avoid another collapse.

Disclaimer: This exclusive news is based on the author’s insights, analysis, and intuition. While reviewing this information, consider the points discussed and form your own conclusions.

 

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