ST GEORGE’S PARK, Port Elizabeth: (ePRESS) Sri Lanka remains in the hunt for an outstanding victory after a gritty 83-run stand between Kusal Mendis and Dhananjaya de Silva on day four of the second Test against South Africa in Port Elizabeth. At stumps, Sri Lanka needs 143 more runs to win, with five wickets still in hand.
Wicket-keeper Mendis and captain de Silva, both unbeaten on 39, have given Sri Lanka some hope, but the challenge is steep. With South Africa’s bowlers preparing for the second new ball in 28 overs, Sri Lanka’s tail end, including Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando, and Asitha Fernando, poses a major concern. The team will also have to navigate the tricky morning conditions, which have been difficult to handle throughout the Test.
Earlier, left armer Prabath Jayasuriya made history by becoming the fourth Sri Lankan spinner to take five wickets in an innings in South Africa. He joined the ranks of world’s highest wicket taker Muttiah Muralitharan, Rangana Herath, and team member Lasith Embuldeniya, all of whom have achieved this feat in match-winning efforts.
At the close of play, Sri Lanka’s score stands at 205 for 5, chasing South Africa’s 358 and 317. With an enthralling final day ahead, all eyes will be on Mendis and de Silva as they fight to keep Sri Lanka’s hopes alive.
Sri Lanka 328 and 205 for 5 (Dhananjaya de Silva not out 39, Kusal Mendis not out 39, Paterson 2-33, Keshav Maharaj 2-62) need 143 runs to beat South Africa 358 and 317 (Temba Bavuma 66, Aiden Markram 55, Prabhath Jayasuriya 5-129).
