Sri Lankan pacer Lahiru Kumara produced a moment of brilliance during the second Test against South Africa in Gqeberha, clean-bowling star batter Aiden Markram with a stunning inswinger. The delivery was one of the standout moments of the series so far, leaving the South African vice-captain bewildered.
Aiden Markram, who looked composed at the crease, was undone by the sharp movement and walked back to the pavilion for a modest score of 20. The wicket also marked a significant milestone for Lahiru Kumara, who reached his 100th Test wicket in style.
The opening session of Day 1 saw an intriguing battle between bat and ball, with honours evenly shared by the lunch break. Sri Lanka had a dream start, claiming three quick wickets to put the hosts on the back foot. However, South African captain Temba Bavuma and middle-order batter Ryan Rickelton steadied the innings with a vital partnership.
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Their resilience ensured South Africa remained in contention, setting the stage for an engaging contest in the subsequent sessions. South Africa’s innings began with Aiden Markram and Tony de Zorzi opening the batting. While Markram appeared to be in fine form, Kumara’s superb delivery ended his stay, shattering the stumps and giving Sri Lanka an early advantage.
1️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ 𝐓𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠!
Watch the 2nd #SAvSL Test LIVE on #JioCinema & #Sports18#JioCinemaSports #LahiruKumara pic.twitter.com/kg6pFaGPk4
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) December 5, 2024
The dismissal showcased Lahiru Kumara’s ability to generate late movement, making him a potent threat on a surface offering some assistance. As the match progressed, the momentum seemed delicately balanced.
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Sri Lanka will aim to capitalize on their strong start by picking up quick wickets in the second session, while South Africa will rely on Bavuma and Rickelton to build a substantial partnership and put up a competitive total. With both sides having a chance to seize the advantage, the remainder of Day 1 promises to be an enthralling battle that could shape the outcome of this Test.
