South Africa put Ireland to the sword in Abu Dhabi

Ireland suffered an eight-wicket defeat in the first T20 international against South Africa in Abu Dhabi.

Curtis Campher top-scored for Ireland with 49 from 36 balls and Neil Rock chipped in with 37 from 28 as they posted 171 for eight.

But South Africa openers Ryan Rickelton and Reeza Hendricks made light work of their target by putting on 136 for the first wicket in 13 overs.

Hendricks was first to fall, for 51, before Rickelton departed with just two runs added to the total having scored 76.

Matthew Breetzke and captain Aiden Markram saw South Africa home with little fuss and they crossed the line with 14 balls remaining.