South Africa found themselves in a precarious position on the second day of the first Test against Sri Lanka at Kingsmead on Thursday, after being bowled out for a mere 191 runs in their first innings.
Their batting lineup collapsed in a mere 49.4 overs, leaving many wondering what could have been if the team had managed to put up a stronger resistance against the Sri Lankan bowling attack.
The top scorer for the South African team was Temba Bavuma, who managed to notch up a respectable 70 runs before being dismissed. However, the lack of support from the rest of the batting lineup meant that the team's overall score was far from satisfactory.
The Sri Lankan bowling attack, on the other hand, was in fine form, with multiple bowlers chipping in with crucial wickets. Asitha Fernando and Vishwa Fernando picked up three and two wickets respectively, while Lahiru Kumara snapped up three wickets for 70 runs. Praveen Jayasuriya also managed to grab two wickets for 24 runs.
Sri Lanka won the toss earlier in the match and elected to field first, a decision that ultimately paid off as their bowlers were able to exploit the conditions at Kingsmead to devastating effect.
Despite the poor start, South Africa will be hoping to bounce back in the match and put the Sri Lankans under pressure in their first innings. The team will be banking on their bowlers to deliver the goods and restrict the opposition to a low score, thereby staying in the match.
However, the task ahead of them will not be easy, and they will need to come up with a strong plan if they are to succeed in their mission. One thing is for sure, though - the match is shaping up to be a thrilling encounter that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.