Marco Jansen’s seven-for tatters Sri Lanka, bundles for 42

South Africa pacer Marco Jansen picked up a seven-wicket haul to demolish Sri Lanka’s batting unit in the first Test of the series in Durban. The hosts had a difficult time with the bat, having been bundled for only 191 runs but in return, the Proteas pacers breathed fire and cleaned up Sri Lanka for only 42 runs. Youngster Jansen was ruthless, conceding 13 runs in 6.5 overs picking up wickets of the top-order batters, middle and the tailenders. 

The hosts needed something special with the ball after a horrid time with the bat and that’s what Jansen provided. He was terrific with the line and length as Sri Lanka didn’t look comfortable in playing the pace. Ace pacer Kagiso Rabada started the party by picking up the wicket of Dimuth Karunaratne and then, Jansen cleaned up Pathum Nissanka, Dinesh Chadimal and Angelo Mathews in no time, as Sri Lanka were reduced to 16/4.

Later, he also cleared up Dhananjaya de Silva, Prabath Jayasuriya, Vishwa Fernando and Asitha Fernando. Only Kamindu Mendis and Lahiru Kumara scored in double digits for Sri Lanka as South Africa managed a 149-run lead in the first innings. The Lankan Lions meanwhile will be utterly disappointed with their performance with the bat. The top order failed to deal with pace and that led to a collapse.

The series against Sri Lanka is vital for South Africa as they are still in contention to make it to the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) final. They are fifth on the table with 54.17 and if they manage to pick up the series win over Sri Lanka, the Temba Bavuma-led side will better their chances to make it to the summit clash.

In the meantime, the Proteas have started well with the bat and will be hoping to keep up with the momentum and put pressure on the Lankan players.

Here's how the fans reacted to Day 2 of SA vs SL first Test: