South Africa have a task on hand as they come into the second and final Test of the series against Sri Lanka trailing by a 0-1 margin. Their reputation will be at stake as another defeat or even a draw would mean a series loss to an Asian team at home. Sri Lanka did the unthinkable in the previous Test as Kusal Perera's heroic knock of 153 in the fourth innings completely took the game away from the hosts. South Africa had the Lankan's under the pump for majority of the match but it was the last 75 minutes that changed everything.
However, the previous defeat gave them a lot of things to ponder and it is essential to solve them in order to salvage pride in this match. Apart from Quinton de Kock, none of the other South African batsmen looked comfortable across both innings. Skipper Faf du Plesis played a fighting knock of 90 in the third innings but his inconsistency is something that hurts the team a lot. There don't have that many issues from the bowling front as they did a fine job. Vernon Philander is out with injury and Wiaan Mulder may replace him to make his Test debut.
As far as Sri Lanka are concerned, they can dare to dream again after their miraculous victory in the previous match. However, they would need a stronger performance from each of their batsmen as Kusal Perera won't go on to save them from blushes everytime. Young
South Africa have a task on hand as they come into the second and final Test of the series against Sri Lanka trailing by a 0-1 margin. Their reputation will be at stake as another defeat or even a draw would mean a series loss to an Asian team at home. Sri Lanka did the unthinkable in the previous Test as Kusal Perera's heroic knock of 153 in the fourth innings completely took the game away from the hosts. South Africa had the Lankan's under the pump for majority of the match but it was the last 75 minutes that changed everything.
However, the previous defeat gave them a lot of things to ponder and it is essential to solve them in order to salvage pride in this match. Apart from Quinton de Kock, none of the other South African batsmen looked comfortable across both innings. Skipper Faf du Plesis played a fighting knock of 90 in the third innings but his inconsistency is something that hurts the team a lot. There don't have that many issues from the bowling front as they did a fine job. Vernon Philander is out with injury and Wiaan Mulder may replace him to make his Test debut.
As far as Sri Lanka are concerned, they can dare to dream again after their miraculous victory in the previous match. However, they would need a stronger performance from each of their batsmen as Kusal Perera won't go on to save them from blushes everytime. Young bowlers like Vishwa Fernando, Kasun Rajitha and Lasith Embuldeniya impressed a lot and they would be looking to continue their good work in this match as well.
Weather and Pitch conditions: Overcast conditions but no chance of rain. The faster bowlers will get a lot of help from the conditions and purchase from the pitch. The batsmen are in for yet another tough outing.
Player Recommendations:
Wicket-keeper: Quinton de Kock (10 Cr)
de Kock was the only South African batsman who showed a composed approach at the crease during both innings in the last match. His scores of 82 and 55 are testimony to that. He is expected to do well in this match as well.
Batsman: Faf du Plesis (10 Cr)
The South African skipper failed to make a meaningful contribution in the first innings but came back strongly in the second outing with a defiant knock of 90 runs. His role will be crucial in this match once again.
All-Rounder: Wiaan Mulder (8 Cr)
The 21-year old is all set to make his Test debut as a like for like replacement for Vernon Philander, who has been ruled out with injury. He is a bowling all rounder and has 60 first class wickets to his name at an average of around 23. He will have a vital role to play in this match.
Bowler: Vishwa Fernando (8 Cr)
The Sri Lankan left arm seamer pick up 8 wickets in the previous Test and helped his country pick up a Test victory after a long time. He will look to continue the good work in this match as well.
Captain: Quinton de Kock
Vice-Captain: Vishwa Fernando
