Cricket
Proteas climb to top of WTC standing after Sri Lanka whitewash─── MORGAN PIEK 13:19 Mon, 09 Dec 2024
“There’s a lot of competitiveness among the players. As much as everyone gets along well, there’s a collective eagerness to contribute to the team’s success.”
The Proteas climbed to the summit of the World Test Championship standings after completing a 2-0 Test series whitewash against Sri Lanka on Monday.
South Africa defeated Sri Lanka by 109 runs at St. George’s Park in Gqeberha, marking their fifth consecutive Test win. This victory propelled them to the top spot in the standings as they aim to qualify for their first-ever WTC final.
The Proteas scored 358 runs in their first innings, led by Kyle Verreynne’s impressive 105, Ryan Rickelton’s 101, and captain Temba Bavuma's 78. They then bowled out Sri Lanka for 328, with Pathum Nissanka contributing 89 runs and Kamindu Mendis adding 48.
Seamer Dane Paterson was the standout performer for South Africa, claiming his first-ever Test five-wicket haul with figures of 5/72.
Temba Bavuma. Photo: Cricinfo
In their second innings, South Africa posted 317 runs, with Bavuma leading once again with a charge of 66. Aiden Markram chipped in with 55, and Tristan Stubbs contributed 47. This set Sri Lanka a challenging target of 348 runs to level the series and keep their WTC final hopes alive.
On Monday morning, Sri Lanka resumed their second innings on 205/5, needing 143 more runs for victory. However, Proteas spinner Keshav Maharaj swiftly dismantled the Sri Lankan tail, taking 5/76 as the visitors were bowled out for 238 within just over an hour on day five.
Bavuma, whose 327 runs across the series earned him the Player of the Series award, praised the team’s culture and effort.
“I think it speaks a lot to the energy within the team,” Bavuma said. “Guys coming off the sidelines are mentally prepared to deliver winning performances.
“There’s a lot of competitiveness among the players. As much as everyone gets along well, there’s a collective eagerness to contribute to the team’s success.”
Keshav Maharaj. Photo: Cricinfo
He also credited the coaching staff for fostering a positive and motivational environment.
“Every training session has become inspirational,” Bavuma added. “It makes my job as captain much easier when the players are so committed.
“Whether it’s the bowlers wanting to keep the ball in their hands or fielders throwing their bodies on the line, the passion is evident. The energy within the squad is infectious, and it’s reflected in our performances.”
The Test squad will enjoy a short break before facing Pakistan in the 1st Test, starting on December 26 at SuperSport Park in Centurion.
