SA Vs IRE 2nd ODI: Sheikh Zayed Stadium Abu Dhabi Pitch Report

Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi [Source: @CricSubhayan/X]Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi [Source: @CricSubhayan/X]

On Friday, South Africa will cross swords against Ireland in the second ODI of the ongoing three-match series. The high-voltage clash will be played at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. 

Led by Temba Bavuma, South Africa had an outstanding start to the ODI series following an unexpected defeat in the final T20I. Despite losing three early wickets, the Proteas posted a competitive 271-run total, thanks to exceptional knocks from Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs. In response, Ireland crumbled like a pack of cards, being bowled out for 132 runs and losing the match by a whopping 139-run margin. 

So, moving on to this game, South Africa would be keen to extend their winning run and bag the series, while the Irishmen would put their best feet forward to restore parity. As both teams gear up for an exciting face-off, let's see how the surface at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi will behave throughout the contest. 

Sheikh Zayed Stadium Abu Dhabi Pitch Report

Contrary to expectations, the pitch in Abu Dhabi had a 4mm grass covering for the first ODI. So, the track offered genuine seam movement to the fast bowlers, as the Irishmen reduced South Africa to three down in no time. 

Expect a similar surface with a hint of assistance for the pacers for the second ODI. The fast bowlers, who can challenge both edges of the bat by bowling seam-ups and wobbled-seam deliveries, will pose a serious threat to the batters across both innings. So, the batters must play out the new-ball spell safely before adopting an aggressive approach. 

The spinners didn't get significant turn in the first ODI. Therefore, unless the same strip is used, don't expect the spinners to make the ball talk in the middle overs. Batting under the lights will be challenging, with pacers and spinners getting significant assistance off the deck. So, considering the venue's track record, the toss-winner will likely bat first.