In a shocking turn of events, Sri Lanka was bowled out for a mere 42 runs in their first innings against South Africa on Day 1 of the first Test match in Centurion. The paltry total is now the lowest in Sri Lanka’s Test cricket history, marking a day of heartbreak for fans and players alike.
South Africa’s relentless bowling attack, led by the fiery pace of Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, dismantled the Sri Lankan batting lineup with surgical precision. Jansen claimed figures of 5/12, while Rabada added 3/9, leaving the visitors reeling. The pitch offered bounce and seam movement, but it was the disciplined and hostile bowling that proved too much for Sri Lanka’s batters.
For Sri Lanka, no batter managed to reach double figures, with Kasun Rajitha top-scoring with just 12 runs. This dismal performance surpassed their previous lowest total of 71 against Pakistan in 1994.
Speaking after the innings, captain Dimuth Karunaratne acknowledged the team’s struggles. “This is a tough day for all of us. The conditions were challenging, but we didn’t apply ourselves the way we should have. It’s a hard lesson, but we’ll come back stronger,” he said, echoing the sentiments of a nation that has always believed in resilience.
For South Africa, it was a day to celebrate their dominance and teamwork. “We stuck to our plans, and the results show the effort we’ve put in as a unit,” said Marco Jansen.
Cricket, a game of glorious uncertainties, often brings such unforgettable days. Sri Lanka’s fans, while disheartened, know the team’s spirit has endured tougher times. The second innings will be an opportunity for redemption—a chance to rewrite today’s narrative.
As play continues, the world watches to see if Sri Lanka can rise from the ashes.
(Picture credits:Israth)
𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞, 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐰𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥!
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