South Africa and Ireland go head-to-head again with the hosts firmly in the pound seats after a convincing seven-wicket victory on Saturday in East London.

Ireland were restricted to 209/7 in their allotted 47 overs at Buffalo Park, and the Proteas made light work of the chase, reaching the target in just 36.5 overs. 

An unbeaten 66 from Suné Luus, along with a classy 56* by Bloemfontein’s Miané Smit, ensured there were few nerves in the South African camp.

The match also marked the welcome return of seasoned opening batter Tazmin Brits, who was back in Proteas colours for the first time since the ICC Cricket World Cup final in India, following a lengthy lay-off due to a shoulder injury. 

Brits looked fluent at the top of the order before being dismissed for 20 by Cara Murray. Known for the intensity and power she brings to the crease, Brits said it was encouraging to see that same attacking mindset filtering through the rest of the batting line-up for the 50-over format.

“Coming off the T20 Internationals, it was pleasing to see that we kept the intensity,” said the Klerksdorp-born opener.”

Suné Luus. Photo: Morgan Piek

“We started well, especially with Wolvaardt up front, and even though I didn’t get much strike early on, for Miané and Suné to finish the game like that is always great for the team.

“We definitely spoke about intent, especially between myself and Lara Goodall. We’ll look to rotate the strike a bit better and not hog too many balls.

“It was our first game against Ireland, so there’s some leeway there, but hopefully we can improve in the next one.”

Laura Wolvaardt. Photo: Morgan Piek

Brits said she is simply grateful to be back in the mix after missing several matches due to the injury she picked up at the World Cup, admitting it was tough watching from the sidelines – and that there was more than a touch of envy involved.

“To be honest, it wasn’t great missing out. I watched the game live at Newlands and it didn’t sit well with me because I always want to be out there representing the country, especially in T20 cricket. 

“Seeing Wolvaardt score that hundred, I thought, imagine if we were both there – we could’ve put on a 200-run partnership.”

Tuesday’s second ODI between South Africa and Ireland at St George’s Park is scheduled to get under way at 10:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg