Sri Lanka Collapse on Final Day as South Africa Clinch Series 2-0

South Africa Seal Series Win Over Sri Lanka with Dominant Performance

South Africa wrapped up a commanding 109-run victory in the second Test against Sri Lanka, securing a 2-0 series triumph. The match, which was delicately poised heading into Day 5, saw Sri Lanka resuming their chase at 205/5, needing 348 to win. However, Sri Lanka’s resistance was shattered by a brilliant five-wicket haul from Keshav Maharaj, propelling South Africa to a comfortable win.

Maharaj Leads the Charge as Sri Lanka Fall Short

South Africa began Day 5 with their experienced bowlers, Kagiso Rabada and Keshav Maharaj, seeking the final breakthroughs. The early wicket of Kusal Mendis, who was dismissed for a well-made 45, shifted the momentum in South Africa’s favor. Aiden Markram took a low catch in slip to send Mendis back, and from there, the collapse began.

Dhananjaya de Silva’s dismissal soon after, caught behind for 50, marked the end of Sri Lanka’s hopes of a successful chase. Prabath Jayasuriya, despite getting a reprieve, was dismissed shortly after, and South Africa finished the job quickly with wickets from Maharaj and Marco Jansen to wrap up the series.

Sri Lanka’s Collapse in the Final Innings

Sri Lanka, having shown resilience in their chase, were left to rue missed opportunities. Despite strong individual efforts from Pathum Nissanka (89) and Dhananjaya de Silva (50), the visitors fell short in their pursuit of 348. Maharaj’s 5/76 performance and Dane Paterson’s earlier five-wicket haul in Sri Lanka’s first innings proved pivotal in South Africa’s victory.

South Africa on Top of WTC Standings

This win propels South Africa to the top of the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, further cementing their dominance in the series. With a comprehensive all-round performance, they demonstrated their skill and teamwork, securing a well-earned victory over Sri Lanka.

Key Highlights

South Africa’s Total: 358 (Kyle Verreynne 105, Ryan Rickelton 101) & 317 (Temba Bavuma 66)
Sri Lanka’s Total: 328 (Pathum Nissanka 89) & 238 (Dhananjaya de Silva 50)
Keshav Maharaj’s Match Figures: 5/76 in Sri Lanka’s second innings
Key Bowlers: Dane Paterson (5/71), Kagiso Rabada (1/54), Marco Jansen (1/43)
Match Outcome: South Africa won by 109 runs and clinched the series 2-0

Looking Ahead

South Africa’s series victory puts them in a strong position on the WTC points table, and they will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures. Stay tuned to EchoCricket.com for the latest updates from the world of Test cricket!