Sri Lanka recorded their lowest-ever Test innings total of 42 against South Africa, with Marco Jansen taking 7-13. Only two batsmen scored in double figures, and the innings lasted just 83 balls. South Africa leads by 149 runs after scoring 191 in their first innings, with Temba Bavuma the top scorer at 70.
Sri Lanka’s cricket team experienced a historic collapse during the first Test against South Africa, recording their lowest-ever Test innings total of 42 at Kingsmead, Durban. Fast bowler Marco Jansen played a pivotal role in this remarkable feat, taking 7 wickets for just 13 runs. The previous record low for Sri Lanka was 71, established in 1994 against Pakistan, while the global record remains New Zealand’s dismal 26 against England in 1955. Furthermore, this total marks the lowest ever recorded against South Africa, surpassing New Zealand’s 45 in 2013.
Only Kamindu Mendis and Lahiru Kumara managed to score in double figures, with Mendis contributing 13 runs and Kumara finishing with 10 not out. The innings lasted a mere 83 balls, making it the second shortest completed innings in Test history, following South Africa’s 30 all out in Birmingham in 1924. South Africa closed their first innings at 191 runs, with captain Temba Bavuma leading the scoring with 70 runs.
As the teams move to the second innings, South Africa leads by 149 runs, building a significant advantage after Sri Lanka’s staggering performance. The low totals on both sides underscore the challenges posed by the conditions at Kingsmead, particularly for batting teams.
This unprecedented collapse by Sri Lanka in Test cricket highlights the team’s struggles with batting under pressure, especially when faced with a potent bowling attack like that of South Africa. Historically, cricket matches can turn dramatically based on pitch conditions and bowling quality, and this encounter serves as a stark reminder of how quickly a team’s fortunes can change. The significance of the records being established during this match further underscores the competitive nature of international cricket and the fine margins that separate victory from defeat.
In summary, Sri Lanka’s abysmal total of 42 runs marks a new low in their Test cricket history. The exceptional bowling performance from Marco Jansen led South Africa to a commanding position, as they secured a 149-run lead in the first innings. As the match progresses, it will be crucial for Sri Lanka to reassess and rebound from this setback to restore confidence in their batting lineup moving forward.
Original Source: www.france24.com
