Sri Lanka Dismisses Three Early Wickets to Challenge South Africa Early in Second Test

Sri Lanka limited South Africa to 82-3 at lunch on the first day of the second Test, taking three early wickets, with Lahiru Kumara claiming his 100th Test wicket. The hosts faced challenges on a pitch that provided assistance to bowlers despite traditionally favorable batting conditions.

In the opening session of the second Test match held at Gqeberha, South Africa, Sri Lanka successfully claimed three early wickets, limiting the hosts to a score of 82 for 3 before lunch on Thursday. Lahiru Kumara marked his 100th Test wicket by dismissing opener Aiden Markram for 20 runs and followed up with the wicket of Tristan Stubbs, who managed only four runs. Earlier, Tony de Zorzi was out for a duck, trapped lbw by Asitha Fernando in the second over.

At the break, Ryan Rickleton was not out on 29, while captain Temba Bavuma remained unbeaten on 27. The pitch, which showed some assistance for bowlers, led to South Africa’s challenging start despite their decision to bat first after winning the toss. St George’s Park is known for providing good batting conditions when wind conditions are favorable; however, South Africa struggled early on.

De Zorzi’s unsuccessful review of his dismissal compounded the pressure, while Markram’s inconsistent form continued as he fell trying to drive a delivery that deviated back onto his stumps. Stubbs, who had excelled in the previous Test with a century, fell to a sharp catch by wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis. Both teams are aiming for victory to enhance their chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship final scheduled for next year, with South Africa having won the first Test by a substantial 233 runs.

The article revolves around the second Test match between Sri Lanka and South Africa, crucial for both teams’ aspirations to secure a place in the World Test Championship final. Sri Lanka aimed to bounce back after losing the first Test heavily, while South Africa sought to build on their previous success. The conditions at St George’s Park traditionally favor batting; however, the early wickets highlighted the effectiveness of Sri Lanka’s bowling attack in exploiting the pitch’s initial assistance, particularly during overcast conditions.

In summary, Sri Lanka demonstrated a strong bowling performance in the early stages of the second Test against South Africa, taking three significant wickets to restrict the hosts to 82 for 3 at lunch. Lahiru Kumara’s achievement of his 100th Test wicket was a highlight, while South Africa’s batting struggles raised questions about their strategy on a pitch that historically favors batters. Both teams remain in pursuit of victory to strengthen their chances for the World Test Championship final.

Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com