Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs have scored career-best half-centuries to dig South Africa out of trouble with the bat and help their side to a 139-run victory over Ireland in the first of three one-day internationals in Abu Dhabi.

After electing to bat, South Africa slipped to 3-39 before left-hander Rickelton scored 91 from 102 balls and Stubbs 79 from 86 to rescue the innings with a fourth-wicket stand of 152 as they posted 9-271.

Mark Adair took 4-50 and Craig Young 3-45 as Ireland bowled well on a seaming wicket until Rickelton and Stubbs put the pressure back on the bowlers.

South Africa's pace attack then took advantage of the conditions and never let Ireland build momentum in their innings, taking wickets at regular intervals as they reduced their opponents to 5-61, eventually bowling them out for 132.

George Dockrell top-scored in the innings with 21, and seamer Lizaad Williams took a career-best 4-32.

South Africa have rested several regulars for the series. The next match will be at the same venue on Friday, with the final match on Monday.