Sri Lanka was bowled out for a record low total of 42 runs by South Africa’s Marco Jansen, who took 7 wickets for 13 runs. This score is now the lowest in Sri Lankan Test history and the lowest by any team against South Africa. Only two batsmen reached double figures during the innings, which lasted just 83 balls. South Africa leads by 149 runs going into the second innings.
In an astonishing display of bowling prowess, South Africa’s fast bowler Marco Jansen dismantled the Sri Lankan batting lineup, capturing 7 wickets for just 13 runs. Consequently, Sri Lanka’s first innings total plummeted to a mere 42 runs during the second day of the first Test match at Kingsmead, Durban. This score not only marks Sri Lanka’s lowest innings total in Test history—surpassing their previous dismal score of 71 against Pakistan in 1994—but also sets a record for the lowest total by any team against South Africa, falling short of New Zealand’s previous record of 45. Furthermore, the innings lasted only 83 balls, just shy of the record for the shortest completed innings in Test cricket, held by South Africa who were bowled out for 30 in 1924.
Only two Sri Lankan batsmen managed to reach double figures, with Kamindu Mendis scoring 13 runs and number 10 batsman Lahiru Kumara remaining not out on 10. Jansen’s remarkable performance overshadowed South Africa’s earlier first innings total of 191 runs, wherein their captain Temba Bavuma was the standout performer, contributing 70 runs. With a significant lead of 149 runs entering the second innings, South Africa is in a commanding position in this Test match.
This article discusses an unprecedented moment in Test cricket, highlighting Sri Lanka’s fall to a historically low total against South Africa in Durban. Fast bowling has consistently proven to be a decisive factor in Test matches, showcasing the prowess of bowlers like Marco Jansen who, with his exceptional performance, not only set records for his team but repositioned the narrative regarding the vulnerabilities of the Sri Lankan batting order. The significance of records in cricket adds to the competitive nature of the sport, making such low scores a matter of scrutiny and analysis among cricket enthusiasts and analysts alike.
In summary, the record-setting collapse of the Sri Lankan team to a total of 42 runs has underscored both the effectiveness of South Africa’s bowling attack, particularly Marco Jansen, and the fragility of the Sri Lankan batting lineup. This match serves as a crucial reminder of the volatile nature of Test cricket, where historical records are constantly at risk of being challenged in the pursuit of excellence.
Original Source: www.france24.com
