Pathum Nissanka scored 89 runs, leading Sri Lanka to a strong position of 242-3 in response to South Africa’s 358 in the second Test. Nissanka’s dismissal left a mark on an otherwise effective innings supported by partnerships, reflecting a significant turnaround from Sri Lanka’s previous performance.
Gqeberha (South Africa) – Pathum Nissanka showcased a remarkable performance, scoring 89 runs, as Sri Lanka constructed a formidable batting response against South Africa in the second Test at St George’s Park. By day’s end, Sri Lanka had amassed 242 runs for the loss of three wickets, following South Africa’s first innings score of 358. Nissanka appeared poised for a century before being dismissed while attempting a risky shot against spinner Keshav Maharaj. Until that moment, he had only misjudged a catch at slip when he was on 22, having faced 157 deliveries with 11 fours and one six.
Sri Lanka’s batting coach, Thilina Kandamby, commended Nissanka’s performance but noted a momentary lapse in concentration led to his dismissal. “Pathum was so good to watch but he will blame himself for the manner he got out,” Kandamby remarked, highlighting the importance of maintaining focus in such situations. Nissanka’s contributions included partnerships of 41 with Dimuth Karunaratne, 109 with Dinesh Chandimal, and 49 with Angelo Mathews, who concluded the day unbeaten on 40 runs alongside Kamindu Mendis, who added 30 not out in a promising partnership.
The day marked a significant improvement for Sri Lanka, contrasting sharply with their previous innings where they recorded a dismal total of 42 runs in the first Test. Kandamby reflected on the lessons learned, stating, “We all knew where we went wrong in Durban in the first innings. We went after a lot of balls wide outside off stump. These things happen in Test cricket. The boys were up for the challenge.” He also emphasized the opportunity for Sri Lanka to take control of the match by securing a substantial first-innings lead.
Earlier, South Africa added 89 runs to their overnight total with notable performances, including Kyle Verreynne, who scored his century swiftly, finishing not out at 105. With various partnerships, particularly a 56-run stand for the ninth wicket between Verreynne and Kagiso Rabada, South Africa managed to bolster their innings before their final wicket. Verreynne acknowledged the current balance of play, stating, “It is very even at the moment…But they have come out and played really nicely, and the pitch looks like it is getting better and better to bat on.” He indicated that early dismissals on the following day would be pivotal for South Africa’s prospects.
This article discusses the ongoing second Test match between Sri Lanka and South Africa, highlighting the batting performance of Sri Lanka on the second day. The focus is on Pathum Nissanka’s significant contribution to the team and the tactical implications of batting strategy after Sri Lanka’s previous poor showing in the first Test. Furthermore, it outlines the responses of both teams regarding the evolving conditions of the match, offering insight into the competitive dynamics at play.
In summary, Pathum Nissanka’s stellar batting performance provided hope for Sri Lanka, as they recovered from a humiliating defeat in the first Test to forge a strong position in the current match against South Africa. His partnerships and the collective effort from the team reflect a strategic adjustment to capitalize on favorable batting conditions. As the match progresses, both teams remain poised for a competitive encounter, with the morning session set to be crucial for determining the outcome.
Original Source: www.france24.com
