Marco Jansen’s Heroics Lead South Africa to Dominant Position in Test Match Against Sri Lanka
South Africa took complete control on the second day of the opening Test against Sri Lanka in Durban, thanks to a stellar performance by all-rounder Marco Jansen. Jansen’s career-best figures of 7/13 led the Proteas’ bowling attack, ensuring that the home team was firmly in charge of proceedings.
At the end of day two, South Africa had reached 132/3 in their second innings, with opener Aiden Markram leading the way with a solid knock of 47 runs off 81 balls. Captain Temba Bavuma was at the crease on 24 not out, supported by Tristan Stubbs on 17, as the hosts held a commanding lead of 281 runs.
Bavuma’s Resilience at the Crease
Early in the day, South Africa found themselves in a precarious position at 80/4 in their first innings. However, captain Bavuma stood firm at the crease, scoring a crucial 70 runs off 117 balls to guide his team to a total of 191 before being bowled out. Bavuma’s innings was instrumental in propelling South Africa to a competitive score in challenging conditions.
Jansen, who would later play a starring role with the ball, commended Bavuma’s contribution, emphasizing the importance of his knock in difficult batting conditions.
Jansen’s Bowling Masterclass
In response, Sri Lanka faced a relentless bowling onslaught from Jansen, who decimated their batting lineup with his career-best figures of 7/13. The Sri Lankan team was bundled out for a mere 42 runs in just the 14th over of their first innings, as Jansen wreaked havoc with his pace and accuracy.
Jansen credited the team’s collective effort and intensity in exploiting the favorable pitch conditions, which allowed him to make a significant impact with the ball.
Records Tumble as South Africa Dominates
The demolition of the Sri Lankan batting lineup marked a historic moment in Test cricket, with the visitors being bowled out in less than 14 overs for the second time ever. It also represented the lowest total scored by any opposition against South Africa in a Test innings, as well as Sri Lanka’s lowest ever total in Test cricket.
With a commanding lead of 149 runs heading into their second innings, South Africa’s batters capitalized on the momentum, extending their advantage and putting the game out of reach for the tourists.
