South Africa bolstered their chances of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final with a commanding 109-run win over Sri Lanka in Gqeberha. This victory not only secured a 2-0 series sweep but also propelled them to the top of the WTC table, putting them in prime position for a place in the final at Lord’s.
Day Five Dominance
Starting the final day at 205-5, Sri Lanka needed 143 more runs to chase down the daunting target of 348. However, South Africa’s bowlers quickly dismantled the remaining batting lineup. Left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj broke the crucial partnership between Dhananjaya de Silva and Kusal Mendis in just the fourth over, sending Mendis back after he edged to slip.
Kagiso Rabada struck soon after, dismissing Dhananjaya caught behind. From there, Sri Lanka crumbled, losing their last five wickets for just 19 runs. Maharaj completed his 11th five-wicket haul in Test cricket, finishing with figures of 5-76 in the second innings. Rabada and the rest of the attack kept the pressure on, ensuring South Africa’s emphatic win.
Strong Batting Performances
South Africa’s victory was built on the back of strong batting efforts. In the first innings, Kyle Verreyne and Ryan Rickelton both scored centuries, with Verreyne remaining unbeaten on 105 and Rickelton contributing 101. Their performances helped South Africa post a competitive total of 358, giving the Proteas a narrow but crucial first-innings lead.
In the second innings, captain Temba Bavuma and opener Aiden Markram stepped up with half-centuries. Bavuma’s 66 provided the foundation for South Africa to set a challenging target of 348 for Sri Lanka.
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Sri Lanka’s Resistance Falters
Sri Lanka showed glimpses of fight, with Pathum Nissanka scoring 89 in the first innings and Dhananjaya adding a resilient 50 in the second. However, their efforts were not enough to overcome South Africa’s disciplined bowling and strategic fielding. Dane Paterson, playing as a 35-year-old seamer, impressed with a maiden five-wicket haul in the first innings, finishing with figures of 5-71.
Despite building promising partnerships, Sri Lanka’s batting collapsed under pressure, particularly in the second innings. The Proteas bowlers expertly exploited the conditions at St. George’s Park to seal the victory.
A Step Closer to the WTC Final
With this win, South Africa leapfrogged Australia to claim the top spot on the World Test Championship table. The Proteas now look forward to a two-Test series against Pakistan, starting on Boxing Day. If they manage to secure victories in both matches, they will guarantee their place in the WTC final at Lord’s in June.
South Africa’s performance in Gqeberha showcased a complete team effort, from centuries by their batsmen to crucial spells by their bowlers. The win not only strengthens their position in the World Test Championship but also highlights their growing confidence as they eye the ultimate prize in Test cricket.
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