Sri Lanka Records Lowest Test Innings Total at 42 Against South Africa

In an unprecedented event, Sri Lanka were bowled out for just 42 runs by South Africa in Durban, marking their lowest Test innings total ever. Marco Jansen led the bowling attack with outstanding figures of 7-13, while only two Sri Lankan batsmen scored in double figures. This innings also ranks among the shortest in men’s Test history, with the team bowled out in just 83 balls.

In a remarkable display of bowling prowess, South Africa dismissed Sri Lanka for a mere 42 runs in Durban, marking the lowest Test innings total in the history of the Sri Lankan men’s cricket team. This dismal performance occurred while chasing South Africa’s first innings total of 191 during the second day of the first Test match. South African bowler Marco Jansen delivered a stunning performance, achieving his career-best figures of 7 wickets for just 13 runs in 6.5 overs. His teammates, Gerald Coetzee and Kagiso Rabada, contributed by taking 2 and 1 wickets, respectively.

Sri Lanka’s previous record for the lowest Test innings was set in 1994, when they were bowled out for 71 runs by Pakistan in Kandy. Remarkably, only eight teams have been dismissed for fewer runs than 42 in the history of men’s Test cricket. Among the Sri Lankan batsmen, only Kamindu Mendis and Lahiru Kumara managed to reach double figures, scoring 13 and 10 runs, respectively. The entirety of Sri Lanka’s innings lasted just 83 balls, making it the second shortest innings in men’s Test history, surpassed only by South Africa’s 30 all out against England, which occurred in 1924.

The phenomenon of low team totals in Test cricket has intrigued fans and analysts alike, often highlighting discrepancies in batting technique and adaptability to differing pitch conditions. Historically, the ability to navigate under pressure and deliver competitive scores has often distinguished successful teams from those languishing at the bottom. The 42-run total by Sri Lanka stands as a testament to the potential for even seasoned teams to fail dramatically, underlining the unpredictable nature of the sport. Furthermore, Marco Jansen’s exceptional bowling performance is a notable point of reference, showcasing individual excellence against collective batting failures.

In conclusion, Sri Lanka’s record-setting innings of 42 runs represents a low point in their cricketing history, eclipsing previous records and emphasizing the challenges faced in Test cricket. South Africa’s bowling, particularly by Marco Jansen, was instrumental in achieving this feat, illustrating the fine margins that can exist in the game. Such performances remind fans and players alike of the unpredictable and often unforgiving nature of cricket at the highest levels.

Original Source: www.bbc.com