South Africa undertakes Sri Lanka in the second and final Test of the series at St George’s Park in Gkeberha, starting on December 5. The Proteas then lead the series 1-0. an impressive win in the first Test and will be looking for another win to seal the clean sheet. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, are facing a tough task and will be aiming to equalize the series comeback.
The Proteas look to whitewash the Isles
After their dominant performance in the first Test, South Africa will be looking to extend their momentum and complete a whitewash of Sri Lanka. The hosts put on a clinical display with outstanding performances in both departments Themba Bavuma and Marco Jansen. The Proteas will be looking to build on this and get a second straight win which will not only seal the series but also give their confidence a huge boost in the home conditions. With key players in form, South Africa will be aiming for a dominant finish to the series.
Sri Lanka will look to make a comeback to level the series
Sri Lanka, after a heavy defeat in the first Test, will be under pressure to bounce back and level the series. Despite some individual brilliance, the visitors were unable to challenge South Africa’s dominance. Lahiru Kumara and We hate Fernando will need to provide key breakthroughs with the ball while Kamindu Mendis will be the decisive blow. The Sri Lankan side needs to regroup soon and focus on executing better strategies and capitalizing on opportunities.
As the action heats up in the second Test, both teams are gearing up for a crucial performance. With the series on the line with Sri Lanka and South Africa looking for a dominant win, the upcoming battle promises to be intense. These are key player battles that can play an important role in shaping the outcome of the game.
Also READ: SA vs SL, 2nd Test: St George’s Park Report, Gkeberha Weather | South Africa v Sri Lanka 2024
3 innings in South Africa vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test
1. Tristan Stubbs vs. Asita Fernando
Stubbs was instrumental in South Africa’s victory in the first Test, scoring a crucial century (122 runs) to lead his team to victory. Stubbs’ aggressive stroke play and composure under pressure will be tested again. His duel against Sri Lankan pace bowler Asita promises to be an interesting contest. Fernando took 4 wickets in the first Test and will be looking to continue his good form to challenge Stubbs. The outcome of this battle can have a major impact on the flow of the midfield and can set the tone of the game.
2. Lahiru Kumara vs Themba Bavuma
Bavuma was in outstanding form scoring 70 in the first innings and 113 in the second innings in the first Test. As South Africa’s captain, Bavuma will be key to stabilizing the innings and building partnerships. Sri Lanka’s Kumara, who took 3 wickets in the first Test, including the crucial dismissal of Bavuma (though it was no ball), will be looking for redemption. Kumara’s speed and ability to generate jumps could cause problems for Bavuma and this fight will be crucial in the context of the game.
3. Kamindu Mendis vs. Marco Jansen
Mendis has been quiet so far, scoring just 10 runs with the bat in the first Test. However, Mendis is a promising young talent who has the ability to turn the game around with his all-round skills. Jansen, on the other hand, was South Africa’s standout bowler in the first Test, taking 11 wickets in the match, including 7 in the first innings. Mendis will have his work cut out for him against Jansen, whose ability to extract bounce and movement can be difficult. Jansen’s form and Mendis’ potential make this an exciting duel to watch as the game is likely to hinge on how both players perform under pressure.
