Sri Lanka Suffers Record Low Test Total of 42 Runs Against South Africa

In the first Test at Kingsmead, Sri Lanka suffered a historic collapse, scoring just 42 runs, the lowest in their Test history. Marco Jansen excelled with 7-13, contributing to this stunning outcome. South Africa, having earlier posted 191, leads by 149 runs, with Temba Bavuma top-scoring for their side.

In an astonishing turn of events during the first Test match against South Africa at Kingsmead, Durban, Sri Lanka was bowled out for a mere 42 runs, marking the lowest innings total in their Test history. Fast bowler Marco Jansen led the charge with exceptional figures of 7 wickets for just 13 runs, as Sri Lanka struggled to contend with a pitch that favored seam bowling. This dismal performance not only overshadowed their previous low score of 71 against Pakistan in 1994 but also established a new low for any team facing South Africa in Test matches.

The innings lasted only 83 balls, making it the second-shortest in Test history, falling short of the record held by South Africa’s own innings of 30 runs in 1924. Of the eleven batsmen, only Kamindu Mendis and Lahiru Kumara managed to score in double digits, with Mendis contributing 13 runs, while Kumara ended with 10 not out. South Africa had initially set a target of 191, with captain Temba Bavuma leading the scoring with 70 runs, thus giving South Africa a commanding lead of 149 runs heading into their second innings.

South Africa’s first innings total of 191 was built on crucial contributions from Bavuma and Keshav Maharaj, the latter scoring 24 runs at a lower-order position. Jansen’s bowling performance exemplified the challenges Sri Lanka faced, as they failed to establish any semblance of a partnership, ultimately succumbing to an overwhelming defeat in terms of total runs.

This match highlights not only Sri Lanka’s batting frailties but also South Africa’s bowling prowess, as they look to capitalize on their commanding position. With their future in the match appearing precarious, Sri Lanka will need to regroup in the upcoming innings to stand any chance against the formidable South African side.

The history of Test cricket is filled with dramatic records and unexpected turns, and Sri Lanka’s recent innings of 42 runs serves as a stark reminder of how swiftly fortunes can change. Falling to such a low total not only encapsulates the pressure of international cricket but also highlights the impact of conditions favoring bowlers. Fast bowlers have historically been able to exploit pitches with seam movement, as seen in this instance with Marco Jansen’s remarkable performance. Such records bear significant weight in the cricketing community, reflecting the highs and lows teams can experience within the framework of their histories.

In conclusion, Sri Lanka’s collapse to 42 runs marks a significant low in their cricketing history, reflecting a critical challenge for the team as they move forward in the series. Fast bowler Marco Jansen’s extraordinary performance has drawn attention, emphasizing the challenging conditions for batters. With South Africa leading by 149 runs, the upcoming innings will be crucial for Sri Lanka as they seek to restore some pride and competitive spirit in the match.

Original Source: www.france24.com