South Africa has taken a 1-0 lead in the two-Test series against Sri Lanka with a commanding 233-run win on the fourth day of the first Test at Kingsmead, Durban. This victory marks a crucial step for the Proteas in their bid to secure a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final for the first time.

After being bowled out for a modest 191 in their first innings, South Africa rallied strongly in their second, declaring at 366/5. This left Sri Lanka chasing an improbable target of 515 runs for victory after being dismissed for a record-low 42 in their first innings.

In their second innings, Sri Lanka displayed greater resolve, led by Dinesh Chandimal's gritty 83. Captain Dhananjaya de Silva added a well-fought 58, while wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis contributed 48. However, despite their resilience on day four, Sri Lanka's efforts fell short, as the Proteas wrapped up the innings for 282.

Marco Jansen - Cricinfo

The star of the match was South Africa's lanky left-arm seamer Marco Jansen, who claimed figures of 4/73 in 21.4 overs in the second innings, bringing his match tally to a stunning 11 wickets, including his career-best 7/13 in Sri Lanka’s first innings. Kagiso Rabada, Gerald Coetzee, and Keshav Maharaj also made contributions, each taking two wickets in the second innings.

Jansen’s outstanding performance earned him the Man of the Match award, and the victory was historic for South Africa, marking the first time they have defeated Sri Lanka in a Test match at Kingsmead.

Speaking after the win Jansen said he is over the moon with his special performance on returning to the side.

“I never thought I would get ten wickets - it is a dream and that is what we work for,” said Jansen.

Dhananjaya de Silva - Cricinfo

“The second innings we felt the wicket was low, slow and a bit flatter. Getting wickets was going to be tough. After the training period it nice to be strong and fit again. Now the body feels stronger and much fresher.”

The victory was also significant as is shot South Africa up from fifth to second on the World Test Championship table, but they are still far from securing their spot in the final.

However, South Africa’s win was tempered by an injury to allrounder Wiaan Mulder, who fractured his finger while batting in the first innings. Mulder has been ruled out of the second Test and potentially the upcoming series against Pakistan as well. He will be replaced by Warriors captain Matthew Breetzke for the 2nd Test.

The two teams now head to Gqeberha for the second Test, set to begin on Thursday at St George’s Park, where South Africa will aim to seal the series victory.

Morgan Piek OFM  Sport