South Africa has established a commanding position in the first Test against Sri Lanka, following centuries from Tristan Stubbs and Temba Bavuma. Their strong second innings total of 366 for five has set Sri Lanka a daunting target of 516 to chase. The Sri Lankan batting lineup struggled again, finishing the day on 103 for five, facing significant pressure from South Africa’s bowlers, led by Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen.
In the ongoing first Test at Kingsmead, South Africa established a dominant position by posting a formidable second innings total of 366 for five, leading to a declaration shortly after the tea break. This effort was spearheaded by outstanding centuries from Tristan Stubbs and Temba Bavuma, who forged a formidable fourth-wicket partnership of 249 runs. Stubbs contributed significantly with a score of 122, while Bavuma added 113. As a result, Sri Lanka now faces a daunting target of 516 runs to win.
In response, Sri Lanka concluded the day precariously positioned at 103 for five. Their batting troubles continued from the first innings, where they suffered a record low of 42 runs, showcasing a distinct struggle against the South African pace attack. Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen proved particularly effective, each securing two wickets, supplemented by Gerald Coetzee’s single dismissal.
The day commenced with Stubbs and Bavuma at the crease, looking to consolidate their team’s position. They played with maturity and discipline, scoring 101 runs before lunch. Notably, Vishwa Fernando emerged as the pick of the Sri Lankan bowlers, presenting the only chance of the morning session, which saw Stubbs dropped on 33 by Angelo Mathews.
During the second session, both batsmen moved towards their centuries with a stellar performance. Stubbs fell shortly before tea, bowled by Fernando, while Bavuma’s innings ended when he was leg before wicket to Asitha Fernando upon declaring the innings. South Africa’s bowling attack quickly troubled the Sri Lankans, with key dismissals showcasing their skill and strategy, particularly in dismissing Dimuth Karunaratne early in the innings.
The first Test match between South Africa and Sri Lanka at Kingsmead has been characterized by a stark contrast in batting performance. While South Africa’s players, notably Tristan Stubbs and Temba Bavuma, have succeeded in building a substantial lead through solid performances, the Sri Lankan batting lineup has struggled significantly. The first innings showcased their vulnerability, concluding with a historic low score. As the match progresses, the contrasting forms of both teams highlight the challenges faced by Sri Lanka in overcoming South Africa’s formidable pace bowling.
In summary, South Africa’s strong performance on the third day of the first Test has placed them in a commanding position with an imposing target set for Sri Lanka. With Stubbs and Bavuma leading the charge with their centuries, and the South African bowlers capitalizing on Sri Lanka’s batting vulnerabilities, the match appears heavily tilted in favor of the home team. The concluding day’s play will be critical for Sri Lanka as they seek to salvage their position amidst mounting pressure.
Original Source: www.france24.com
