Former South Africa all-rounder and current batting coach Jean-Paul Duminy turned back the clock as he took the field for his side during the third ODI against Ireland in Abu Dhabi.
Duminy, who retired from all forms of cricket in July 2019, came in as a substitute fielder in the final overs of the Ireland innings due to hot and humid conditions, which forced some South African players to go out.
It’s worth noting that according to rules coaches or members of team management can take the field as substitutes in case of a shortage of players due to injury or any other reason.
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The 40-year-old coach not only took the field but made a stellar attempt to save the boundary with a dive at short third man, earning praise from commentators for his athleticism despite retiring five years ago.
Ireland, while batting first, managed to post 284-9, courtesy of captain Paul Stirling’s dashing 88 and Harry Trector’s quick-fire 60 off 48.
In response, South Africa were bundled out for 215 in 46.1 overs with only Jason Smith top-scoring with a brilliant 91-run knock from 93 balls.
Despite the loss, South Africa took the ODI series 2-1 with the two sides sharing the preceding T20 series 1-1.
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