As Sri Lanka chases a target of 348 runs in the second Test, South Africa needs just eight wickets to secure victory. By tea on the fourth day, Sri Lanka is at 60 for 2, requiring 288 more runs. South Africa was dismissed for 317, with significant contributions from bowlers like Prabath Jayasuriya, while Temba Bavuma led the batting with 66 runs.
In the ongoing second Test at St George’s Park, Gqeberha, South Africa is poised for victory, requiring just eight wickets to secure a win against Sri Lanka, who are chasing a challenging target of 348 runs. By tea on the fourth day, Sri Lanka had already lost two openers, concluding the session at 60 for 2. Despite getting South Africa all out for 317 after lunch, Sri Lanka still needs a daunting 288 runs to level the series.
The chase marks a potential record for Gqeberha, though the Sri Lankan batsmen displayed aggressive intentions, which led to their downfall. Pathum Nissanka, initially given out lbw to Marco Jansen, successfully overturned the decision but was dismissed soon after, caught attempting to drive a wide delivery from Dane Paterson. Meanwhile, Dimuth Karunaratne’s review for another lbw appeal off Kagiso Rabada failed, leaving him out for merely one run.
At tea, only Dinesh Chandimal (29) and Angelo Mathews (6) remain not out, with Sri Lanka knowing they still have a substantial chase ahead. Following a lead of 347 runs, South Africa managed to add another 35 runs after lunch before being bowled out. The standout performer was Prabath Jayasuriya, who achieved his first five-wicket haul outside Sri Lanka with impressive figures of 5 for 129. Captain Temba Bavuma contributed a solid 66 runs, showcasing his consistency throughout the series although he continues to struggle converting fifties into centuries.
Earlier, confusion led to a run-out of Tristan Stubbs for 47, while David Bedingham fell victim to another sensational delivery from Jayasuriya, ending his innings at 35. South Africa previously triumphed over Sri Lanka by 233 runs in Durban, which sets the stage for a pivotal conclusion to this Test series.
The context of this match arises from an ongoing two-match Test series between South Africa and Sri Lanka. After already winning the first Test decisively, South Africa aims to maintain momentum in the second Test. Gqeberha, previously known as Port Elizabeth, is witnessing a potentially historic match as Sri Lanka pursues a record chase, necessitating a sophisticated strategy to overcome the challenges laid out by South African bowlers. The performance of both teams has highlighted key players whose contributions will influence the series outcome.
In conclusion, the second Test between South Africa and Sri Lanka at Gqeberha is shaping up to be a thrilling contest. With South Africa in a strong position to win by requiring only eight wickets, Sri Lanka faces the daunting challenge of chasing down a significant target of 348 runs. Key contributions from players like Prabath Jayasuriya and Temba Bavuma further illustrate the competitive dynamics at play, promising an engaging end to the match.
Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com
