The first Test between South Africa and Sri Lanka will occur on November 27, 2024, at Kingsmead, Durban. This match is crucial for both teams in the ICC World Test Championship standings. South Africa’s playing XI features Temba Bavuma, while Sri Lanka’s probable lineup includes Dimuth Karunaratne and Dhananjaya de Silva. The live toss is at 12:30 PM IST, with the match starting at 1:00 PM IST, available on Sports18 and Jio Cinema.
The highly anticipated first Test of the two-match series between South Africa and Sri Lanka is scheduled to commence on November 27, 2024, at the renowned Kingsmead Cricket Stadium located in Durban. This match is pivotal for both teams as they compete for crucial points in the ICC World Test Championship 2023–25 standings, with South Africa currently ranked fifth, closely trailing Sri Lanka in third. South Africa has announced its playing XI, welcoming back Temba Bavuma after his injury.
South Africa’s playing XI comprises: Tony de Zorzi, Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs, Temba Bavuma, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (wicket-keeper), Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj, and Kagiso Rabada. Sri Lanka’s probable lineup includes: Dimuth Karunaratne, Pathum Nissanka, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva (captain), Kusal Mendis (wicket-keeper), Milan Rathnayake, Prabath Jayasuriya, Asitha Fernando, and Vishwa Fernando.
In their previous encounters, South Africa and Sri Lanka have faced each other in 31 Test matches, where South Africa emerged victorious in 16 instances, while Sri Lanka won 9 matches, and 6 have ended in draws. Both teams have reinforced their squads adequately, with each having a well-balanced mix of experienced players and emerging talents.
The live toss for the first Test is set for 12:30 PM IST on the day of the match, followed by the match commencement at 1:00 PM IST. Cricket enthusiasts can view the live telecast of the match on the Sports18 network, with Sports18 – 1 (HD & SD) channels covering the event. Moreover, live streaming will be accessible through the Jio Cinema app and its website, providing various options for fans to engage with the match remotely.
The Test series between South Africa and Sri Lanka is significant as it forms part of the ICC World Test Championship cycle. Both teams are looking to secure essential points that could impact their standings in the Championship. Considering their last Test series in December-January 2020-21, where South Africa convincingly won, there is much anticipation for how this match will unfold and whether South Africa can replicate their previous success or if Sri Lanka will turn the tables. The return of players like Temba Bavuma adds further intrigue to the contest.
In summary, the upcoming first Test between South Africa and Sri Lanka is not only vital for the ICC World Test Championship standings but also a chance for both teams to enhance their legacy in Test cricket. With a well-prepared South African squad and a challenging Sri Lankan lineup, the match promises to deliver exciting cricket. Fans can follow the action via various broadcast and streaming platforms, enhancing their viewing experience.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
