Sri Lanka Sets Record Low Total Against South Africa in First Test

Sri Lanka faced a historic collapse in their first Test match against South Africa, posting a mere 42 runs, their lowest ever total in Test history. Marco Jansen achieved extraordinary bowling figures of 7/13, marking a significant achievement for fast bowlers in South Africa this century. As a result, Sri Lanka finds themselves in a considerably precarious position in the match.

In an astonishing display of pace bowling, Sri Lanka crumbled to an unprecedented low total of 42 runs in their first innings against South Africa in the first Test match held in Durban. Despite initially dismissing South Africa for 191, Sri Lanka’s batting performance was severely lacking, lasting a mere 13.5 overs against the formidable South African bowling attack, specifically the trio of Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, and Gerald Coetzee.

Marco Jansen distinguished himself by securing remarkable bowling figures of 7 wickets for just 13 runs, marking both a record for the best innings figures by a fast bowler in South Africa this century and only the second instance of achieving a seven-wicket haul in under seven overs in Test cricket history, a feat last accomplished in 1904. This drastic collapse by Sri Lanka has underscored their struggles in challenging seaming conditions, making this total the third lowest in Test history in South Africa, with only South Africa’s historically low scores of 30 and 35 against England surpassing it. As the match progressed on Day 2, South Africa extended their lead significantly, leaving Sri Lanka in a precarious position.

Sri Lanka’s cricketing journey has encountered numerous challenges, particularly in away matches against strong opponents. Their history of low scores in South Africa raises concerns about their batting resilience, especially when faced with a potent bowling attack. In this specific Test match, weather conditions played a role in disrupting play, impacting performance dynamics and emphasizing the significance of adapting under pressing circumstances. The record-setting bowling performance by Marco Jansen adds further context to South Africa’s dominance in the match.

The unprecedented collapse of Sri Lanka to a score of 42 runs against South Africa not only highlights their batting woes but sets historical benchmarks for Test cricket. Marco Jansen’s exceptional performance exemplifies the difficulties faced by visiting teams in seaming conditions in South Africa. As the match progresses, Sri Lanka’s need for a strategic overhaul in their batting order becomes more evident if they hope to compete effectively in future Tests.

Original Source: www.cricket.com