A powerhouse ODI outfit like the Proteas should never suffer a comprehensive defeat to the likes of Ireland, so prepare yourself for the embarrassment of playing in a World Cup qualifying tournament.

There are several Proteas who need to take a long look at themselves. With due respect to Ireland – a team that has performed well at World Cups – the tourists boast a wealth of talent and outmatch their opponents considerably.

But team sport is a funny thing, and Ireland’s collective spirit and approach to the second ODI of the three-match series far outwitted an uninterested Proteas lineup. Some hard conversations need to happen.

Apart from Janneman Malan, the batting was listless as the low-scoring woes continue. No mention of names but not getting going against a pretty ordinary Ireland attack is poor – especially in the crucial final 25 overs.

The run out at the end pretty much summed it up and perhaps Mark Boucher needs to act like a school teacher and force his players to suffer the ignominy of doing a running between the wickets 101 masterclass.

Every single ODI win counts in the buildup to India 2023 and Temba Bavuma’s men must adopt a solid plan that plays to the strength of the national team.

Any more defeats like this, and a Top 8 automatic qualification for the Cricket World Cup will be just a distant dream for the Proteas.