GQEBERHA, South Africa – South Africa showcased resilience on the opening day of the second Test against Sri Lanka, recovering from a shaky start to reach 179-4 at tea on Thursday. Captain Temba Bavuma and Ryan Rickelton led the comeback after the hosts lost three quick wickets in the morning session.
Bavuma and Rickelton Lead the Revival
Bavuma and Rickelton stitched together a vital 133-run stand for the fourth wicket, stabilizing South Africa’s innings after early setbacks. Bavuma looked poised for a big score but fell for 85, gloving a short ball from Asitha Fernando just before the tea break. This marked Bavuma’s 23rd Test fifty, though he has managed to convert only three of these into centuries.
Rickelton, playing in place of the injured Wiaan Mulder, made the most of his opportunity by registering his maiden Test half-century. He reached the landmark in 121 balls and remained unbeaten on 72 at the interval, with David Bedingham batting alongside him on one run.
Sri Lanka Strikes Early
Sri Lanka made an immediate impact after South Africa elected to bat. Lahiru Kumara achieved a significant milestone by claiming his 100th Test wicket, dismissing opener Aiden Markram for 20. Kumara later sent home crowd favorite Tristan Stubbs back to the pavilion for just four runs.
Earlier, Asitha Fernando struck in the second over, trapping Tony de Zorzi leg before wicket for a golden duck. De Zorzi’s review of the decision proved futile.
Markram’s struggles in Test cricket continued as he dragged a booming drive onto his stumps. With an average of 25 runs over his last 10 Test innings, his inconsistent form remains a concern.
Stubbs, who had scored a century in the first Test, fell cheaply at his home ground, edging a rising delivery to wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis, who took an excellent diving catch.
Both Teams Eye World Test Championship Final
The stakes are high as both South Africa and Sri Lanka aim to keep their hopes alive for a spot in the World Test Championship final. South Africa, coming off a dominant 233-run victory in the first Test in Durban, will look to consolidate their position, while Sri Lanka hopes to level the series.
The day’s play highlighted the competitive spirit of both sides, setting the stage for an intriguing contest in Gqeberha.
