Sri Lanka recorded a historic low Test total of 42 runs against South Africa, thanks to Marco Jansen’s outstanding bowling performance of 7-13. This marks Sri Lanka’s lowest innings score yet, surpassing their 1994 record of 71. The innings lasted only 83 balls, making it the second shortest in Test history as South Africa leads by 149 runs going into the second innings.
In a remarkable display of fast-bowling prowess, South African paceman Marco Jansen achieved extraordinary figures of 7-13, leading to Sri Lanka’s staggering total of merely 42 runs during their first innings on the second day of the Test match at Kingsmead, Durban. This abysmal score represents a new milestone for Sri Lanka, marking the lowest innings total in their Test history, surpassing their prior record of 71 runs set against Pakistan in 1994.
The current record for the lowest innings total in Test cricket remains with New Zealand, who scored 26 runs against England in Auckland in 1955. Additionally, Sri Lanka’s score is the lowest ever recorded against South Africa, eclipsing the previous low of 45 set by New Zealand in Cape Town in 2013. Notably, Sri Lanka’s innings was the second shortest in Test history, as it lasted only 83 balls, just a few deliveries shy of the record held by South Africa, who were bowled out for 30 runs against England in 1924.
Only two Sri Lankan batsmen managed to score in double figures, with Kamindu Mendis contributing 13 runs before being dismissed, and number ten batsman Lahiru Kumara managing 10 not out. South Africa, who had been bowled out for 191 runs earlier, took a substantial lead of 149 runs into their second innings. South African captain Temba Bavuma emerged as the top scorer for his side with 70 runs, followed by Keshav Maharaj, who chipped in with a quickfire 24 runs at number 10.
The brief scores reflect South Africa’s first innings at 191 all out in 49.4 overs, while Sri Lanka fell dismally to 42 all out in just 13.5 overs, with contributions from Marco Jansen (7-13) and Gerald Coetzee (2-18) adding to the woes of the visiting side.
The Sri Lanka cricket team has faced various challenges in international Test matches, often fluctuating in performance levels. Known for its historic matches against leading teams, the Sri Lankan cricket squad aims to maintain competitive standards. However, the performance recorded in this match against South Africa signifies an alarming decline in batting capability. Recognizing the conditions favoring seam bowlers has also highlighted the need for strategic adaptation from teams touring South Africa.
Sri Lanka’s remarkable fall to just 42 runs in their first innings signals a record low in the team’s Test match history and underscores significant issues regarding their batting stability against formidable bowling attacks. With South Africa in a commanding position, the necessary adjustments will be crucial for the Sri Lankan side in the ongoing series and in future challenges.
Original Source: www.france24.com
