Pathum Nissanka’s solid knock of 89 runs during the second test of the Sri Lanka tour of South Africa 2024 has laid a strong foundation for visitors to grit against Proteas.
By the end of day 02, Sri Lanka stood in good position on the second day of the second Test at St George’s Park in Gqeberha on Friday.
After resuming the day at 269/7, South Africa’s lower order put on a strong show with the bat, Kyle Verreynne’s unbeaten 105 helping South Africa post a formidable 358.
Sri Lanka batters put on a notable display with Pathum Nissanka’s half-century and contributions from Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews and Kamindu Mendis helped the visitors reduce the gap to 116 runs.
Batters lead Sri Lanka’s fight on second day of the #SAvSL Test 👏#WTC25https://t.co/2f3vvkBlAw
— ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2024
Vishwa Fernando made contributions for a wicketless opening day by picking up the wickets of Marco Jansen and Keshav Maharaj. Kagiso Rabada’s 23 runs provided a supporting hand to Verreynne though as South Africa crossed 300.
Verreynne hit 12 four and 3 sixes on his way to an eventful hundred. He brought up the milestone in style, lifting Asitha Fernando for six.
Pathum Nissanka and Dimuth Karunaratne withstood a testing spell from South Africa’s pacers adding 41 runs for the first wicket.
Nissanka and Chandimal held the fort and helped Sri Lanka to 103/1 by the end of scond session. Sri Lanka continued in the same vein in the final session, with Nissanka leading the charge.
With South Africa leading the two match series 1-0, the outcome of the ongoing test will be crucial for both the sides to secure a spot in the final.
