RYAN RICKELTON and Tristan Stubbs scored career-best half-centuries as South Africa gained revenge for Sunday’s first-ever T20 defeat to Ireland.
The Proteas romped to a 139-run victory in the first of three One-Day Internationals in Abu Dhabi.
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Ireland’s historic 10-run victory on Sunday saw the T20 series finish in a 1-1 draw.
But Paul Stirling’s side were skittled for 132 in 31.5 overs responding to South Africa’s 271 for nine.
George Dockrell top-scored for Ireland in the innings with 21, with Andy Balbirnie and Curtis Campher each reaching 20.
But they failed to kick on with both batters dismissed by seamer Lizaad Williams, who claimed four for 32.
Mark Adair had earlier claimed four for 50 and Craig Young three for 45 to drag back the Proteas, who looked set for a higher score after reaching 191 for three in the 35th over.
But even at that stage they had enough, thanks to opener Rickelton’s 91 off 102 balls plus Stubbs’ 79 off 86 deliveries.
South Africa, who rested several regulars for the series, play Ireland again tomorrow.