In the hot and humid conditions at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, several South African players struggled. Ottneil Baartman who baged a couple of wickets did not bowl his last two overs as he struggled with heat. A few other players struggled too which led to batting coach Jean-Paul Duminy putting the jersey to take part in an international game after five years. As per the rules, coach or members of support staff can take take the field as substitute if the players are injured or as in this case, fatigued.
Duminy took the field in the final few overs of Ireland’s innings. In the final over of the innings, he put in a dive at short third man in an attempt to save a boundary. Harry Tector tried to play a reverse scoop against Andile Phehlukwayo. He could time it and the ball went towards short third man. Duminy put in a dive and stopped the ball with his left hand. The commentators lauded Duminy for his athleticism and dedication to the game.
Duminy not entirely out of touch
The 40-year-old has not completely distanced himself from cricketing action even though he has taken up the coaching role. Three years after playing his last T20 game in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), he played for South Africa Champions in the World Championship of Legends in July this year.
South Africa surrender in Abu Dhabi heat
While South Africa won the ODI series, they lost the third ODI by 69 runs. This was South Africa's second defeat to Ireland in ODIs. Skipper Paul Stirling and Harry Tector's half-centuries helped Ireland post 284/9 on the board.
In the run chase, South Africa lose three wickets for just 10 runs as top-order failed. Jason Smith fought the lone battle as wickets fell around him. Smith's 93-ball 91 went in vain as South Africa were bowled out for 215 with 23 balls remaining. The Proteas lost the third ODI by 69 runs. South Africa were without their captain Temba Bavuma who sustained an elbow injury. In Bavuma’s absence, Rassie van der Dussen led the side.
