South Africa repeat the dose

It was hard going for Ireland's Women as they went down to hosts South Africa by 178 runs. South Africa's total of 337 for the loss of five wickets was one that meant this game was over as a contest by the luncheon interval.

Laura Wolvaart had mauled the Irish bowlers to the tune of 149 runs at exactly a run-a-ball and with Trisha Chetty (70) put on 179 for the second wicket. A breezy 32 from Mignon du Preez containing 6 boundaries added to Ireland's troubles and put the total well out of reach. Aoife Beggs had the best return for Ireland taking 3 wickets for 24 runs, an excellent performance given what was going on all around.

As might be expected Ireland's reply was pedestrian by comparison. Mary Waldron's 35 extending over 96 balls but her 51 run partnership with Laura Delany (23) was the single significant one of the innings and she ended as Ireland's top scorer. Jenny Gray (19) played in her usual aggressive manner and Lara Mauritz (25) also found the boundary 3 times late on.

Ireland finished the match on 159 with eight wickets down and will take some satisfaction in the little victory of not being bowled out.