Sri Lanka was bowled out for just 42 runs by South African bowler Marc Jansen, who took seven wickets in a record-low innings for the visitors. This low score was the ninth lowest in Test history. South Africa scored 191 in their first innings, led by Temba Bavuma’s 70 runs. The match is crucial for both teams in their quest for the World Test Championship final.
On Thursday, during the second day of the first test at Kingsmead, Durban, Sri Lanka faced a disheartening collapse, bowled out for a mere 42 runs, marking their lowest Test score ever. South Africa’s Marc Jansen dominated with an outstanding performance, claiming seven wickets for just 13 runs. This dreadful batting display lasted only 13.5 overs, as Sri Lanka struggled against the seam-friendly conditions, trailing by 149 runs after South Africa’s first innings total of 191.
The innings was historically significant, being tied for the ninth lowest in Test history. Marc Jansen’s exceptional figures of 7-13 highlighted the Sri Lankans’ batting woes, with their previous lowest total of 53 surpassed by this performance. Gerald Coetzee contributed with 2-18 while Kagiso Rabada took the other wicket. Kamindu Mendes was the only Sri Lankan batsman to reach double figures, scoring 13, while five players were dismissed without contributing to the score.
Before this collapse, South Africa’s captain Temba Bavuma had top-scored for his side with a resilient 70 runs in their first innings. Bavuma, returning from an elbow injury, navigated through a cautious start to his innings, eventually accelerating towards the end. The South African innings faced interruptions due to rain the previous day, but they managed to put together a total of 191, thanks in part to Keshav Maharaj’s quick 24 runs.
The match is of particular importance to both teams as they vie for a position in the World Test Championship final scheduled for June at Lord’s. Asitha Fernando and Lahiru Kumara were the standout bowlers for Sri Lanka during South Africa’s innings, each taking three wickets.
This Test match not only showcases individual brilliance but also underlines the importance of consistency and resilience in international cricket, particularly in conditions conducive to seam bowling.
The match took place at Kingsmead, a venue known for its support of seam bowling, which played a crucial role in the outcome of the innings. South Africa and Sri Lanka are both competing in a two-test series that serves as part of their strategy to qualify for the World Test Championship final. The significance of the match is heightened by the ongoing competition between the teams, as both are searching for necessary victories to secure their positions in upcoming international championships.
The events at Kingsmead on Thursday serve as a stark reminder of the challenges presented in international cricket, particularly in seamer-friendly conditions. Marc Jansen’s outstanding performance highlighted the vulnerabilities within the Sri Lankan batting lineup, leading to historic lows. As both teams continue their pursuit in the Test series, their performances may significantly impact their aspirations for the World Test Championship.
Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com
