IRE vs SA: Relishing challenge against South Africa, says Ireland's Andrew Balbirnie

Ireland skipper Andrew Balbirnie upbeat about his side's chances

​Ireland are gearing up for the South African challenge in their upcoming two-match T20I series against South Africa, beginning this evening in Bristol.

Skipper Andrew Balbirnie said his side is upbeat about facing the David Miller-led side, keeping in mind their preparations for the T20 World Cup 2022.

“South Africa are coming off the back of an impressive series win against England and we know they have power in their batting line-up and we know we will have to be at our peak to beat them, but that’s the exciting bit, we haven’t hit our peak in T20 cricket his season so hopefully we start that ball rolling this week. 

“With just a couple of additions they have the same personnel as when we played them in Malahide last year but I feel we are in a better place,” Balbirnie was quoted by Belfast Telegraph.

Ireland have come perilously close to beating teams like India and New Zealand in the past months and will look to get that elusive win over a top Proteas side who beat England 2-1 in the T20Is last week.

The second match will be played on Friday, August 5.

​Balbirnie has credited coach Heinrich Malan for inculcating fearlessness in the young squad.

“For a couple of years, we had been struggling to find an identity but since Henrich has come in he has brought a fresh approach and re-energised this T20 group and guys are putting their hands up. There’s now a confidence in the batting group and we’re looking forward to a good couple of months going into the World Cup."

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