On the second day of the first Test, South Africa was bowled out for 191 by Sri Lanka. Temba Bavuma was the top scorer with 70 runs. Lahiru Kumara’s bowling was particularly impactful, taking 3 wickets for 70 runs. Despite a brief late innings contribution from Kagiso Rabada, South Africa was unable to overcome the challenges posed by Sri Lankan bowlers.
On the second day of the first Test at Kingsmead, South Africa was dismissed for 191 in their first innings against Sri Lanka. Captain Temba Bavuma led the scoring with 70 runs, while Keshav Maharaj provided valuable support at number ten with a quick 24. The bowlers for Sri Lanka made significant contributions, particularly Lahiru Kumara, who, despite figures of 3 for 70, demonstrated an aggressive performance. Despite the loss, South Africa’s total only slightly improved from an overnight score of 80 for four.
Lahiru Kumara initiated the day’s proceedings by claiming the wicket of Kyle Verreynne, leaving him trapped leg before wicket for nine runs, effectively breaking through the South African innings. Additionally, all-rounder Wiaan Mulder was forced to retire due to a finger injury but made a brief return at the fall of the ninth wicket to assist Kagiso Rabada in securing 26 runs for the last wicket. The weather conditions were favorable on Thursday, marked by bright sunshine and a strong breeze, contrasting sharply with the previous day’s rain which had curtailed play significantly.
This match marks the beginning of the Test series between South Africa and Sri Lanka. Kingsmead in Durban is known for its conditions that can favor fast bowlers, particularly due to its pace and bounce. South Africa, facing early struggles, hoped to stabilize their innings with their captain’s performance but found grit in the lower order as they sought to build a defendable total. Sri Lanka’s bowling attack, led by Kumara, capitalized on the hosts’ weaknesses, aiming to establish dominance in the series early on.
In summary, South Africa’s performance during their first innings against Sri Lanka was marked by struggles. Despite a valiant effort from Captain Temba Bavuma, who scored 70 runs, the lower order could not withstand the pressure from Sri Lanka’s bowlers. Lahiru Kumara’s aggressive bowling proved decisive in limiting the home side to a mere total of 191. As the Test progresses, South Africa must regroup and strategize for their second innings to recover from this early setback.
Original Source: www.france24.com
