Sri Lanka Bowled Out for Historic Low of 42 Runs by South Africa

Sri Lanka posted a historic low of 42 runs in Tests, bowled out by South Africa in Durban. Marco Jansen achieved 7-13, contributing significantly to this loss which is Sri Lanka’s lowest total ever. It was only the second time in Test history a team fell below the 42-run mark, highlighting the challenges faced by the Sri Lankan batting lineup.

In the first Test match held in Durban, South Africa achieved a historic feat by bowling out Sri Lanka for a staggering total of just 42 runs. This total marks the lowest innings total in the history of Sri Lankan men’s Test cricket. Tasked with chasing down South Africa’s first innings score of 191, Sri Lanka succumbed in a mere 13.5 overs. Marco Jansen was the standout bowler, recording exceptional figures of 7 wickets for 13 runs across 6.5 overs, while fellow bowlers Gerald Coetzee and Kagiso Rabada contributed 2 wickets for 18 runs and 1 wicket for 10 runs, respectively. The previous record for Sri Lanka’s lowest Test innings was set at 71 runs against Pakistan in 1994. Notably, only eight instances have occurred in men’s Test cricket in which a team has been dismissed for fewer than 42 runs. Only Kamindu Mendis and Lahiru Kumara managed to score in double figures, with 13 and 10 runs respectively. The total innings lasted only 83 balls, marking the second shortest innings in men’s Test history, narrowly surpassing South Africa’s own record of 30 all out against England in 1924.

The context of the match highlights the rarity of such a low batting performance within Test cricket, reflecting both the skill of the bowling side and the challenges faced by the batting team. The historic nature of Sri Lanka’s innings sheds light on their struggles in the format while also highlighting South Africa’s bowling prowess. The record-low total illustrates the importance of consistency and resilience in the enduring format of the game, which often features intense competition.

In summary, Sri Lanka’s collapse for 42 runs against South Africa marks a significant moment in cricket history, showcasing the fragile nature of batting under pressure. Marco Jansen’s extraordinary performance was pivotal in achieving this record for South Africa. As both teams progress from this match, the implications of this outcome could resonate throughout Sri Lanka’s cricketing landscape, prompting a reassessment of their strategies moving forward.

Original Source: www.bbc.com

About Ravi Patel

Ravi Patel is a dedicated journalist who has spent nearly fifteen years reporting on economic and environmental issues. He graduated from the University of Chicago and has worked for an array of nationally acclaimed magazines and online platforms. Ravi’s investigative pieces are known for their thorough research and clarity, making intricate subjects accessible to a broad audience. His belief in responsible journalism drives him to seek the truth and present it with precision.

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