• Temba Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs played brilliant knocks on Day 3 of the Durban Test between South Africa and Sri Lanka.

  • Their controlled batting and smart shot selection against both pace and spin set the tone for South Africa's innings.

Twitter reactions: Temba Bavuma, Tristan Stubbs light up Kingsmead with sensational centuries in first SA vs SL Test
Temba Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs (Image Source: X)

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The first Test between South Africa and Sri Lanka at Durban has turned into a one-sided affair, with the hosts in a commanding position. The host setting the tone with the ball in the first innings by bundling Sri Lanka out for a paltry 42, taking a massive first-innings lead. The Proteas have since extended their dominance, powered by brilliant batting displays from Tristan Stubbs and Temba Bavuma. As Day 3 progresses, South Africa leads by an over 450 runs runs with seven wickets in hand. With their sights set on a declaration, the hosts look poised to secure a victory, leaving Sri Lanka in a desperate struggle to avoid an innings defeat.

Tristan Stubbs shines with maiden home test century

Stubbs has delivered a sensational performance with the bat, registering his maiden home Test century in only his sixth Test appearance. Walking in at a precarious 77/2, Stubbs demonstrated remarkable composure and technique. His 197-ball knock of 105 not out so far has been laced with seven boundaries and two sixes, a testament to his ability to mix caution with aggression. Partnering seamlessly with Bavuma, Stubbs has defied Sri Lanka’s bowlers, building a partnership that has deflated the visitors’ spirits. His footwork against spinners, especially Prabath Jayasuriya, has been noteworthy, as he frequently stepped out to neutralize turn. Stubbs’ innings marks a potential turning point in his career, showcasing his credentials as a reliable middle-order batter.

Also READ: SA vs SL 2024: Fans in shock as Marco Jansen demolishes Sri Lanka for their lowest-ever total on Day 2 of Durban Test

Temba Bavuma anchors with gritty hundred

South African skipper Bavuma also played a captain’s knock so far, crafting an unbeaten 102 off 207 balls. Anchoring the innings after early jitters, Bavuma showcased his trademark patience and resilience. His innings, featuring nine boundaries, epitomized a blend of defensive solidity and calculated aggression. Bavuma’s ability to handle both pace and spin has been crucial, as he built a vital partnership with Stubbs to keep Sri Lanka’s bowlers at bay. The century is a significant statement from Bavuma, silencing critics who questioned his place in the side. His leadership on the field, both as a batter and tactician, has been pivotal in ensuring South Africa’s dominance in this match.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

South Africa firmly in the driver’s seat against Sri Lanka

The match has been entirely one-sided, with South Africa dominating every session. After being bowled out for 191 in their first innings, the Proteas’ bowlers dismantled Sri Lanka for just 42, thanks to Marco Jansen‘s career-best 7/13. The South African batters then capitalized on the massive lead, with Stubbs and Bavuma leading the charge in the second innings. The Sri Lankan bowlers have lacked penetration, with only Jayasuriya showing occasional sparks of brilliance. Heading into the third session on Day 3, South Africa’s massive lead puts them on course for a commanding victory. For Sri Lanka, a miraculous fightback will be required to prevent an innings defeat.

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

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