Coach JP Duminy Steps in as Substitute Fielder for South Africa
In a rare and dramatic twist, former South African cricketer and current batting coach JP Duminy was forced to return to the field as a substitute fielder during the third ODI against Ireland in Abu Dhabi. With South Africa running out of players due to fatigue caused by the intense heat and humidity, Duminy, who retired in 2019, stepped up in the final over of Ireland’s innings.
Coach JP Duminy Steps in as Substitute Fielder After South Africa Runs Out of Players Due to Exhaustion
At 40 years old, Duminy didn’t miss a beat. Positioned at short third man, he made an impressive dive to save a potential boundary off the first delivery of the 50th over. Ireland’s Harry Tector had attempted a reverse hit, only for the ball to take a top edge and head behind the wicketkeeper. Duminy’s quick reaction and athleticism prevented what could have been a double or worse, a boundary, with the on-air commentator exclaiming, “As athletic as he ever was in his career!”
Look who's on the field! JP Duminy !😲 pic.twitter.com/HhBwFQsLJY
— Khushi♡🥀 (@Derivatemee) October 7, 2024
Despite Duminy’s effort, Ireland went on to win the match by 69 runs, securing a consolation victory in the three-match series, which South Africa had already clinched 2-1.
Match Summary:
- Ireland: 284/9 (50 overs)
Paul Stirling top-scored with 88, while Tector contributed a solid 60 off 48 balls. - South Africa: 215 all out (46.1 overs)
Jason Smith fought hard with 91 off 93 balls, but South Africa ultimately fell short.
FAQs
Why did JP Duminy take the field in the ODI against Ireland?
JP Duminy, South Africa’s batting coach, stepped in as a substitute fielder because the team ran out of fielders due to fatigue and sore bodies from the extreme heat and humidity in Abu Dhabi.
When was the last time JP Duminy played professional cricket?
JP Duminy retired from all forms of professional cricket in 2019.
Who won the match between South Africa and Ireland?
Ireland won the third ODI by 69 runs, although South Africa won the three-match series 2-1.
Who was the standout performer for Ireland in the match?
Captain Paul Stirling was instrumental, scoring 88 runs off 92 balls, leading Ireland to a competitive total.
