Sri Lanka’s cricket team faced a historic defeat, bowled out for just 42 runs against South Africa, marking their lowest Test total. The innings lasted only 83 balls, the second shortest in men’s Test history, with Marco Jansen achieving remarkable figures of 7-13. This performance underscores the challenges faced by Sri Lanka in the match and highlights South Africa’s bowling prowess.
In a historic defeat, Sri Lanka was bowled out for a mere 42 runs against South Africa during the first Test match held in Durban, marking the lowest total ever achieved by the Sri Lankan men’s cricket team in Test history. Batting second after South Africa’s first innings total of 191, Sri Lanka succumbed in just 13.5 overs, with only Kamindu Mendis and Lahiru Kumara managing to score in double figures, contributing 13 and 10 runs respectively.
Marco Jansen delivered a remarkable performance, achieving career-best figures of 7 wickets for just 13 runs, while teammates Gerald Coetzee and Kagiso Rabada claimed two and one wicket respectively. This innings was not only Sri Lanka’s nadir but also the second shortest in terms of balls faced by a team in men’s Test history, lasting only 83 balls. The only lower total ever recorded in Test match history is 30 runs, scored by South Africa against England in Edgbaston back in 1924.
The match between Sri Lanka and South Africa’s cricket teams provides critical insight into the challenges and competitive nature of international Test cricket. This particular Test is noteworthy as it highlights Sri Lanka’s struggles at the crease and the impressive bowling performance from South Africa. Lower batting totals are indicative of the potential volatility in Test cricket, which often necessitates an examination of pitch conditions, player form, and psychological factors contributing to team performance. The historical context of lowest Test innings serves as an avenue for analysis within the sport.
In summary, Sri Lanka’s abysmal total of 42 runs against South Africa has cemented its place in cricket history as the team’s lowest Test innings. Marco Jansen’s outstanding bowling performance was pivotal in achieving this feat, contributing significantly to South Africa’s dominance in the match. The implications of this match extend beyond numbers, reflecting on both teams’ respective abilities and the unpredictable nature of cricket.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
