• South Africa stunned Sri Lanka by bowling them out for their lowest-ever Test total on Day 2 of the first Test in Durban.

  • This performance was led by a remarkable bowling spell from Marco Jansen who picked up seven wickets.

SA vs SL 2024: Fans in shock as Marco Jansen demolishes Sri Lanka for their lowest-ever total on Day 2 of Durban Test
South Africa vs Sri Lanka (Image Source: X)

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In a historic bowling performance, South Africa stunned Sri Lanka by skittling them out for a record low of 42 runs in just 13.5 overs on Day 2 of the first Test match in Durban. This effort was spearheaded by Marco Jansen, who put on a spectacular display of fast bowling, capturing 7 wickets for just 13 runs in 6.5 overs. His masterclass in swing and pace proved too much for the Sri Lankan batting lineup, leading to one of their most demoralizing innings in recent history.

Sri Lanka’s batting collapse

Sri Lanka entered their innings with hopes of a strong showing but were immediately on the back foot as South Africa’s bowlers struck early and relentlessly. The top order crumbled under pressure, with Sri Lanka finding themselves at a dire 20/5 within the first few overs. The South African bowlers maintained precise lines and varying paces, keeping the opposition on edge. Key batters failed to build any significant partnerships, and the middle and lower order struggled to cope, resulting in a swift end. No Sri Lankan player managed to score more than 10 runs, and the team was dismissed for just 42 runs – setting an unenviable record as their lowest-ever Test score.

Marco Jansen’s unstoppable seven-wicket spell

Jansen’s remarkable spell was the highlight of the day, showcasing his ability to bowl with both aggression and control. His combination of pace and movement made him unplayable, and he delivered crucial wickets at pivotal moments. Kagiso Rabada was another standout, contributing 1/10 in his 4 overs and maintaining relentless pressure. Gerald Coetzee was also impressive, taking 2/18 from 3 overs. The trio’s cohesive and disciplined approach ensured Sri Lanka’s run rate remained low and scoring opportunities were minimal, highlighting South Africa’s tactical excellence.

Also WATCH: Lahiru Kumara shatters David Bedingham’s stumps with a jaffa on Day 1 of the first SA vs SL Test

South Africa’s batting effort in response

Earlier, South Africa’s first innings were not without their own struggles. After losing Aiden Markram and Tony de Zorzi early, the team found themselves at 14/2. However, Temba Bavuma steadied the ship with a composed innings, scoring 70 runs off 117 balls, featuring nine boundaries and a six. His technical prowess and calm demeanor provided the foundation for South Africa’s innings. Additional contributions from Tristan Stubbs (16 off 38) and Keshav Maharaj (24 off 35) boosted the total, and South Africa was ultimately dismissed for 191 runs in 49.4 overs.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also WATCH: Temba Bavuma’s flying six off Lahiru Kumara on Day 2 of the Durban Test

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