Kingsmead Cricket Ground in Durban witnessed one of Test cricket's most dramatic days, where South Africa bowled Sri Lanka out for their lowest-ever Test score of 42. Marco Jansen's devastating spell (7/13) not only marked a career-best but also highlighted the bowler-friendly nature of the pitch.

Early Troubles for South Africa

After rain impacted the opening day, South Africa resumed on 80/4. The Sri Lankan bowlers, led by Lahiru Kumara and Asitha Fernando, kept the pressure on, eventually dismissing the Proteas for 191. Temba Bavuma anchored the innings with a vital 70, while Prabath Jayasuriya claimed key wickets, including reaching 100 career Test dismissals—one of the fastest to this milestone​.

Collapse: Sri Lanka’s Record Low

In response, Sri Lanka’s batting completely unraveled. The seaming conditions, combined with Jansen's lethal line and length, saw the team crumble in just 13.5 overs their innings totaling 42, the lowest score in their Test history and the third-lowest in the 21st century. Gerald Coetzee and Kagiso Rabada supported Jansen's fiery spell, leaving Sri Lanka's batters with no answers. The top score of 13 by Kamindu Mendis underscored their struggles​.

Historic Context

This performance ranks as the ninth lowest total in Test cricket history. The previous lowest score against South Africa was New Zealand's 45 in Cape Town (2013). For Sri Lanka, their earlier record low was 71 against Pakistan in 1994​.

Bowler's Day Out

The match's second day saw 19 wickets fall, emphasizing the challenging conditions. South Africa, despite being bowled out for under 200, gained a massive 149-run lead in the first innings. Jansen’s figures were the third-best by a South African pacer at home​.

South Africa Consolidates

In their second innings, South Africa batted cautiously to reach 132/3 by stumps, extending their overall lead to 281. Aiden Markram’s 47 and Temba Bavuma’s unbeaten 24 laid the foundation for a potentially match-defining lead. Prabath Jayasuriya continued to impress for Sri Lanka, taking two wickets​.

Key Takeaways

  1. Jansen’s Brilliance: His 7/13 spell is among the most memorable in recent Test history.
  2. Sri Lanka's Struggles: Their inability to counter South Africa’s pace attack highlighted vulnerabilities against seam-friendly conditions.
  3. World Test Championship Impact: The result could have major implications for both teams vying for a spot in the WTC final​.

As the match progresses, South Africa appears poised for a commanding victory, while Sri Lanka will need a herculean effort to salvage pride. The game underscores the relentless nature of Test cricket, where one spell can dictate the course of a match.