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Tag: 2nd test

  • SL vs AUS 2025: Australia’s playing XI for the 2nd Test against Sri Lanka – Predicted

    SL vs AUS 2025: Australia’s playing XI for the 2nd Test against Sri Lanka – Predicted

    Australia‘s tour of Sri Lanka continues with the highly anticipated 2nd Test at the historic Galle International Stadium, commencing on February 6, 2025. Following a commanding victory in the first Test, Australia will look to maintain their momentum, while Sri Lanka aim to bounce back and capitalize on home conditions.

    A clash of pride in Galle

    The Galle International Stadium is renowned for its spin-friendly pitches, which have historically favoured Sri Lankan bowlers. With the series currently in Australia’s favour after a decisive win by an innings and 242 runs in the first Test, Sri Lanka face a critical challenge to adapt and strategize effectively. The home team, captained by Dhananjaya de Silva, will need to leverage their local knowledge and the conditions to turn the tide against a formidable Australian side.

    Australia’s squad boast a mix of experience and youth, with captain Steve Smith leading the charge. Travis Head‘s elevation to open the innings has proven effective, and his partnership with Usman Khawaja will be crucial in setting a solid foundation against Sri Lanka’s spinners. The bowling attack is likely to feature three spinners, with Nathan Lyon and Matthew Kuhnemann expected to exploit any turn available on the pitch.

    Sri Lanka’s squad includes seasoned players like Dimuth Karunaratne and Dinesh Chandimal, With Pathum Nissanka ruled out due to injury, Oshada Fernando steps in as an opener, aiming to provide stability at the top of the order alongside Karunaratne.

    Also READ: ‘Dream come true’: Steve Smith on his monumental achievement of reaching 10,000 Test runs – SL vs AUS

    Here is the Australia’s predicted playing XI for the second Test against Sri Lanka

    1. Usman Khawaja
    • Role: Opening batter
    • Strengths: Khawaja is known for his solid technique and ability to play spin effectively, which is crucial in subcontinental conditions. His experience allows him to anchor the innings and build partnerships.
    • Impact: As a seasoned opener, Khawaja’s role will be vital in setting a strong foundation for the Australian batting lineup, especially against Sri Lankan spinners.
    1. Travis Head
    • Role: Opening batter / Vice-captain
    • Strengths: Travis Head‘s aggressive batting style complements his ability to tackle spin bowling. He has previously excelled in Asian conditions and can take advantage of the new ball.
    • Impact: His dynamic approach at the top can put pressure on the bowlers early on, making him a key player in establishing a commanding position.
    1. Marnus Labuschagne
    • Role: Top-order batter
    • Strengths: Marnus Labuschagne is known for his consistency and ability to adapt to different conditions. His technique against spin is commendable, and he can rotate the strike effectively.
    • Impact: As a run-scorer in the middle order, Labuschagne’s performance will be crucial in stabilizing the innings after early wickets.
    1. Steve Smith (C)
    • Role: Middle-order batter / Captain
    • Strengths: Smith’s unorthodox batting style and exceptional concentration make him one of the best Test batters in the world. His experience as captain adds tactical depth to the team.
    • Impact: His ability to play long innings can turn matches around, and as captain, he will be pivotal in decision-making during crucial moments.
    1. Alex Carey (wk)
    • Role: Wicketkeeper-batter
    • Strengths: Alex Carey has been in outstanding form, leading run-scorers in the Sheffield Shield with an average of 90.4 and showcasing excellent wicketkeeping skills with 15 catches and two stumpings this season. His recent technical adjustments have improved his stroke play significantly.
    • Impact: As a wicketkeeper-batter, Carey’s contributions with both bat and gloves will be essential in supporting the middle order and providing stability during challenging phases of play.
    1. Beau Webster
    • Role: All-rounder
    • Strengths: Beau Webster’s versatility as an allrounder allows him to contribute with both bat and ball. He has shown promise with his recent performances and can bowl off-spin effectively.
    • Impact: His ability to chip in with crucial runs and provide additional spin options makes him valuable in subcontinental conditions.
    1. Nathan Lyon
    • Role: Spin bowler
    • Strengths: Lyon is Australia’s premier spinner with vast experience in Test cricket. His ability to turn the ball sharply makes him a significant threat on turning pitches.
    • Impact: Lyon’s wicket-taking ability will be crucial in breaking partnerships and applying pressure on Sri Lanka’s batting lineup.
    1. Matthew Kuhnemann
    • Role: Spin bowler
    • Strengths: Kuhnemann has proven himself as an effective left-arm spinner who can exploit turning conditions. His variations keep batters guessing.
    • Impact: As a second spinner, Kuhnemann can complement Lyon’s bowling and create challenges for Sri Lankan batters.
    1. Todd Murphy
    • Role: Spin bowler
    • Strengths: Murphy is another promising spinner who has shown potential at the international level. His ability to bowl economically while taking wickets adds depth to Australia’s spin attack.
    • Impact: Murphy’s inclusion provides Australia with multiple spin options, which is critical on subcontinental pitches.
    1. Mitchell Starc
    • Role: Fast bowler
    • Strengths: Mitchell Starc’s left-arm pace bowling combined with his ability to swing the ball makes him a dangerous proposition for any batting lineup. He can deliver crucial breakthroughs with the new ball.
    • Impact: His experience in Test cricket will be vital for taking early wickets and putting pressure on Sri Lanka’s top order.
    1. Scott Boland
    • Role: Fast bowler
    • Strengths: Scott Boland has established himself as a reliable fast bowler with excellent control and seam movement capabilities, particularly effective on pitches that offer assistance to pace bowlers.
    • Impact: Boland’s role will be essential in maintaining pressure during the middle overs and taking wickets when needed.

    Also READ: SL vs AUS: Nathan Lyon opens up on Australia’s ambition of whitewashing Sri Lanka in the Test series

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  • SL vs AUS: Nathan Lyon opens up on Australia’s ambition of whitewashing Sri Lanka in the Test series

    SL vs AUS: Nathan Lyon opens up on Australia’s ambition of whitewashing Sri Lanka in the Test series

    Over the years, Australia have continued asserting their dominance in Test cricket. The team has managed to bring out remarkable performances consistently, showcasing their unmatched prowess in the longest format of the game. However, the desire and hunger of the team is probably still at par with the milestones it has achieved. This is evident through a recent statement from Australia’s ace spinner Nathan Lyon which clearly brought the team’s winning ambition to surface.

    Nathan Lyon confident of a 2-0 win in Sri Lanka

    After the historic win at the Galle International Stadium against Sri Lanka in the opening match of the series, Lyon talked about the future ambitions of the team on Cricket Australia’s official channel and highlighted the team’s ability to dominate the longest format of the game.

    “I feel like that’s a lot of motivation within this team. It’s about us on our journey to becoming a great team, to make sure we go 2-0 up. We’re on that journey, we’re not there yet but that’s our end goal. We want to be known as a great team, and part of that journey is when we close a window making sure we nail it shut, and we don’t let anyone back in. This is only me and my thoughts, but we’ve got some great players within that changeroom,” Lyon said.

    The Aussies last visited Sri Lanka in the year 2022 and were in a similar position before the home side made a stunning comeback to win the 2nd match of the series by an innings and 39 runs and drew the 2-match series 1-1. Lyon, wants to avoid the mistakes of their previous visit to the island nation. The Australian side has not been able to white-wash Asian opposition on their home soil in the last 20 years.

    Additionally, he talked about the quality of players in the Australian side and further highlighted the team’s ability to completely outperform opposition sides in Test cricket. The Australian team had earlier thrashed India 1-3 to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after a decade and won the Ashes twice in the current WTC cycle.

    “You look at Smithy (Steve Smith) bringing up 10,000 runs, you’ve got Starcy who’s around the corner from 100 Test matches and it’s not just the guys here, we’ve got some unbelievable players at home as well whether injured or on paternity leave. It’s a squad mentality and that’s how it should be,” Lyon concluded.

    Also Read: Twitter reactions: Dominant Australia tears Sri Lanka apart to claim an emphatic win in the 1st Test

    A spin masterclass in the first Test

    Lyon had a stellar performance in the 1st Test against Sri Lanka in which he along with Mathhew Kuhnemann and Todd Murphy asserted control over the course of the and completely dominated the home side with their spin on the turning track. The seasoned Australian spinner took 7 wickets in the Test match and had an immense contribution in ensuring a win for the Australian side by an innings and 242 runs.

    The 37-year-old crucially got rid of the dangerous Dinesh Chandimal in both the innings who played a heroic knock in the 1st innings and tried his way out in the 2nd Sri Lankan innings to save the Test match for the home side. However, it was Kuhnemann who was the star for the visitors with the ball as he took a total of 9 wickets and asserted complete control over the Sri Lankan side.

    Also Read: Steve Smith names three Australian players who can reach 10,000 Test runs mark

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  • Fans erupt as Babar Azam and Shan Masood’s towering partnership keeps Pakistan alive after follow-on by South Africa in the Cape Town Test

    Fans erupt as Babar Azam and Shan Masood’s towering partnership keeps Pakistan alive after follow-on by South Africa in the Cape Town Test

    The second Test between South Africa and Pakistan at Johannesburg has been a entertaining contest, with South Africa dominating early and Pakistan showing resilience late in the match. South Africa’s first innings saw a colossal total of 615, led by Ryan Rickelton’s double-century and centuries from Temba Bavuma and Kyle Verreynne. Pakistan’s reply faltered as they were dismissed for a meager 194, with Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen shining with the ball.

    Forced to follow on, Pakistan staged an impressive fightback, thanks to Shan Masood’s unbeaten century and Babar Azam’s composed 81, as the duo added 205 for the opening wicket. By stumps on Day 3, Pakistan had reached 213/1, narrowing the deficit to 208 runs. The battle now hangs in the balance, with both teams eyeing key moments to seize control. Day 4 promises to be an enthralling chapter in this high-stakes Test.

    South Africa’s dominance with the bat

    South Africa showcased their batting supremacy with an imposing total of 615 runs in their first innings. The highlight of their performance was Rickelton’s masterful knock of 259 runs, which was an exhibition of precision and patience. His innings, laced with 29 boundaries and three towering sixes, set the foundation for the Proteas’ commanding total. Bavuma contributed a captain’s knock of 106, showing immense grit and determination at the crease.

    Verreynne also joined the centurion’s club, striking a fluid 100 runs that added depth to South Africa’s batting efforts. Lower down the order, Jansen’s quick-fire 62 further demoralized the Pakistani bowlers. Mohammad Abbas and Agha Salman were the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan, each taking three wickets, but they struggled to stem the flow of runs. South Africa’s relentless aggression left Pakistan staring at an uphill battle from the outset.

    Pakistan’s struggles in the first innings

    Pakistan’s first innings was a story of disappointment and missed opportunities, as the visitors could only muster 194 runs. Babar tried to anchor the innings with a fighting 58, but the lack of support from other batters proved costly. The top-order collapse left Pakistan reeling, with South Africa’s pace duo of Rabada and Jansen exploiting every weakness. Rabada’s fiery three-wicket haul was marked by unrelenting pace and pinpoint accuracy.

    Keshav Maharaj added to the misery with two crucial dismissals, showcasing his guile on a pitch that offered little spin. Pakistan’s middle and lower order fell apart under sustained pressure, with no batter stepping up to stabilize the innings. The massive deficit of 421 runs forced Pakistan to follow on, a scenario that put their resilience to the ultimate test. The first innings exposed the visitors’ frailties against quality bowling in testing conditions.

    Also WATCH: South African commentator mocks Pakistan players’ English-speaking capabilities on Day 2 of the Cape Town Test

    Shan Masood and Babar Azam lead the fightback

    After being forced to follow on, Pakistan displayed remarkable determination, led by Masood’s unbeaten century. Masood’s 102 off 166 balls was an innings of defiance and technical brilliance, ensuring his team avoided an immediate collapse. Former skipper Babar complemented him with a composed knock of 81, showcasing his ability to absorb pressure in challenging circumstances. Together, the duo forged a crucial 205-run opening partnership, laying a solid foundation for Pakistan’s fightback.

    Their partnership frustrated South Africa’s bowlers, who struggled to find breakthroughs on a pitch that had eased considerably. Masood’s array of elegant strokes and Azam’s precise shot selection kept the scoreboard ticking steadily. By the end of Day 3, Pakistan reached 213/1, significantly reducing the deficit to 208 runs. The spirited batting display revived hopes of salvaging the match and set the stage for an intriguing Day 4.

    South Africa’s bowling efforts in the second innings

    South Africa’s bowlers worked tirelessly in the second innings but found limited success against Pakistan’s rejuvenated top order. Jansen was the lone wicket-taker, dismissing Babar with a well-directed short delivery that ended the crucial opening stand. Maharaj bowled with exceptional control, tying down one end with his precise line and length. Despite their efforts, the pitch seemed to have flattened out, offering little assistance to the bowlers.

    Rabada and Ngidi tried to extract pace and bounce but were largely neutralized by Masood and Azam’s disciplined approach. The South African fielders, however, maintained high energy levels, preventing easy runs and applying pressure. The bowlers persisted with attacking fields, searching for breakthroughs that could tilt the game back in their favor. South Africa will aim to regroup and strategize overnight to break Pakistan’s momentum on the penultimate day.

    Here’s how fans reacted:

    Also READ: PSL 2025 Draft: Here’s the complete list of players retained by all 6 teams – Babar Azam to Mohammad Rizwan



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  • WATCH: South African commentator mocks Pakistan players’ English-speaking capabilities on Day 2 of the Cape Town Test

    WATCH: South African commentator mocks Pakistan players’ English-speaking capabilities on Day 2 of the Cape Town Test

    Day 2 of the second Test between South Africa and Pakistan at Newlands, Cape Town, took an unexpected turn when a South African commentator made disparaging remarks about the English-speaking abilities of Pakistan cricketers. The incident not only ignited controversy but also shifted focus from the on-field action to questions of respect and professionalism in cricket commentary.

    The contentious moment occurred during the sixth over of Pakistan’s second innings, as Kamran Ghulam defended a delivery from Marco Jansen and called out a loud “Wait” to his partner, Babar Azam. The commentator took this opportunity to share an anecdote about playing alongside Pakistan batter Khurram Mansoor in Abu Dhabi. He remarked that Manzoor, like many other Pakistan players, made loud calls in English on the field but struggled to communicate fluently in English during post-match interviews. The comment was followed by laughter, creating an impression of mockery directed at the linguistic abilities of Pakistani players.

    Here’s the video:

    Marco Jansen’s magic: Fall of Kamran Ghulam

    On the next ball after the incident, Jansen picked the key wicket of Ghulam, Bowling from around the wicket, Jansen angled the ball in sharply with a full length, targeting the stumps. Khurram, unsure of his footwork, was caught rooted to the crease and attempted a defensive shot. However, the ball zipped through the narrow gap between his bat and pad, crashing into the stumps in spectacular fashion. The combination of late movement and Jansen’s accuracy proved too challenging for Khurram. This dismissal highlighted Jansen’s ability to create awkward angles and exploit weaknesses in Pakistan’s batting. With Pakistan reduced to 18/3, Jansen’s double strike left the visitors in deep trouble.

    Also READ: South Africa’s AB de Villiers reveals his Test XI of 2024 ft. Jasprit Bumrah

    South Africa’s dominance over Pakistan in the Cape Town Test

    The second Test between South Africa and Pakistan so far saw a commanding performance from South Africa, who declared their first innings at a massive 615, thanks to Ryan Rickelton ‘s marathon 259 and a crucial century from Kyle Verreynne. South Africa’s innings was highlighted by partnerships that wore down the Pakistan bowling attack, which struggled in the absence of premier pacers Khurram Shahzad and Mohammad Shahzad. Despite breakthroughs from Mohammad Abbas and Agha Salman, Pakistan failed to capitalize on early wickets, allowing the hosts to dictate terms.

    In response, Pakistan’s innings got off to a shaky start, losing Shan Masood for just 2 and Saud Shakeel for a duck, both dismissed by a fiery Kagiso Rabada. Jansen added to Pakistan’s woes, removing Ghulam early in the innings. At stumps on Day 2, Pakistan found themselves precariously placed at 64/3, still trailing by 551 runs, with Babar (31 not out) and Mohammad Rizwan (9 not out) tasked with rebuilding the innings.

    Also READ: SA vs PAK: Cape Town Weather Forecast for the Second Test | South Africa vs Pakistan 2024-25



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  • Fans go wild as Ryan Rickelton smashes a stunning double ton against Pakistan on Day 2 of the Cape Town Test

    Fans go wild as Ryan Rickelton smashes a stunning double ton against Pakistan on Day 2 of the Cape Town Test

    The cricketing world erupted with excitement as Ryan Rickelton achieved a remarkable milestone on Day 2 of the second Test against Pakistan in Cape Town. His maiden double century not only marked a personal triumph but also made him the first South African Test batter to reach this landmark since Hashim Amla in 2016. The atmosphere at Newlands was electric, with fans celebrating a performance that showcased skill, determination, and an unwavering spirit.

    Ryan Rickelton smashes double ton on Day 2

    As the sun shone brightly over Newlands, Rickelton’s journey towards his double century unfolded with grace and tenacity. Resuming from an impressive 176 runs, he faced Mir Hamza, and with a deft tap past cover, he scampered for a single that brought him to 200 runs. The crowd erupted in applause as he raised his bat in acknowledgment, a moment of pure joy and relief that encapsulated the hard work he had put into his innings. His celebration was infectious; running and punching the air in ecstasy, Rickelton’s delight resonated with fans who had witnessed his evolution as a player throughout the match.

    Also READ: Twitter reactions: South Africa gains the upper hand as Ryan Rickelton and Temba Bavuma excel against Pakistan on Day 1 of 2nd Test

    Rickelton’s historic performance

    Rickelton’s innings was not just about personal achievement; it was pivotal for South Africa’s position in the match. His partnership with captain Temba Bavuma, which totalled 235 runs, was instrumental in stabilizing the innings after a shaky start where South Africa found themselves at 61/0 before slipping to 72/3. The duo’s resilience under pressure showcased their ability to counter-attack effectively against a disciplined Pakistani bowling lineup.

    Rickelton’s innings included 21 boundaries and a six, demonstrating his aggressive yet calculated approach. His ability to find gaps and rotate the strike kept the scoreboard ticking and frustrated the Pakistani bowlers, who struggled to contain the flow of runs as Rickelton built momentum throughout the day.

    With this double century, Rickelton not only solidified his place in South African cricket history but also set a benchmark for upcoming players. His performance is a testament to the strength of character required to succeed at the highest level. As South Africa look ahead in this Test match, they would certainly aim for a whitewash by winning the match.

    Here’s how fans reacted:

    Also READ: SA vs PAK: Cape Town Weather Forecast for the Second Test | South Africa vs Pakistan 2024-25



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  • Sikandar Raza leads Zimbabwe’s charge as Afghanistan collapses for 157 on Day 1 of the second Test

    Sikandar Raza leads Zimbabwe’s charge as Afghanistan collapses for 157 on Day 1 of the second Test

    The second Test between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan at Bulawayo began with Zimbabwe asserting dominance on a day filled with bowling brilliance. After electing to field first, Zimbabwe’s bowlers exploited the conditions perfectly, bundling Afghanistan out for a below-par 157 on Day 1. The visiting batters struggled to find rhythm, with none managing a score beyond 25. Tight lines and relentless pressure ensured wickets fell at regular intervals, leaving Afghanistan reeling. Zimbabwe’s openers then safely navigated the tricky final three overs, reaching 6/0 at stumps and trailing by 151 runs.

    Zimbabwe’s bowlers led by Sikandar Raza dominate Afghanistan

    The Zimbabwean bowling attack delivered a masterclass in discipline and execution. Richard Ngarava was unplayable with figures of 1/18 in 12 overs, suffocating the Afghan batters with his precision. Blessing Muzarabani provided crucial breakthroughs, claiming 2/56, including the key scalp of Shahidullah. Sikandar Raza’s off-spin (3/30) was the standout, dismantling Afghanistan’s middle order with turn and subtle variations. Newman Nyamhuri (3/42) shone in the later stages, expertly cleaning up the tail. The collective effort restricted Afghanistan to a mere 157, as Zimbabwe’s bowlers worked in tandem to exploit every lapse in concentration from the opposition.

    Afghanistan’s batting woes continue

    Afghanistan’s innings was marred by an inability to build meaningful partnerships. Openers Abdul Malik (17) and Riaz Hassan (12) made starts but couldn’t convert them, while Rahmat Shah (19) and captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (13) fell to soft dismissals. Afsar Zazai and Shahidullah tried to stabilize the innings with brief contributions, but none could withstand Zimbabwe’s relentless attack. Rashid Khan’s counterattacking 25 off 20 balls provided a late spark, but it wasn’t enough to rescue the innings. Frequent collapses and lack of application underlined Afghanistan’s struggles as they were bowled out in just 44.3 overs, squandering any chance of a competitive total.

    Also READ: ZIM vs AFG, 2nd Test: Bulawayo Weather Forecast For All 5 Days | Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 2024-25

    Zimbabwe’s steady start in reply

    Zimbabwe’s openers, Joylord Gumbie (4 not out) and Ben Curran (1 not out), showed composure under the fading light, ensuring no early setbacks in their reply. Facing three probing overs from Afghanistan’s bowlers, they carefully negotiated deliveries from Rashid, Fareed Ahmad and Yamin Ahmadzai. Though runs came slowly, the duo’s focus was on preserving wickets. Zimbabwe’s batting depth, with experienced campaigners like Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza waiting in the wings, sets them up for a dominant position on Day 2. The hosts will look to capitalize on this solid start and pile on the runs to take full control of the match.

    Also READ: ZIM vs AFG 2025, 2nd Test: Queens Sports Club Pitch Report, Bulawayo Test stats and Records



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  • Sri Lanka takes command over South Africa with a solid batting display on Day 2 of the second Test

    Sri Lanka takes command over South Africa with a solid batting display on Day 2 of the second Test

    Sri Lanka ended Day 2 in a commanding position at 242/3 in 67 overs, reducing their deficit to just 116 runs. The foundation of their innings was laid by Pathum Nissanka, who played a composed knock of 89 off 157 balls, showcasing exceptional temperament and technique. His efforts were complemented by Dinesh Chandimal’s steady 44 off 97 deliveries, as the duo steered Sri Lanka’s reply after South Africa’s solid first innings.

    South Africa’s innings: Centuries by Ryan Rickelton and Kyle Verreynne

    On Day 1, South Africa rode on Ryan Rickelton’s brilliant century and Temba Bavuma’s gritty 78 off 109 balls to reach a competitive 269/7 by stumps. When play resumed on Day 2, overnight batters Kyle Verreynne and Keshav Maharaj stepped onto the field hoping to extend the total. However, Maharaj was sent back to the pavilion in the very first over without making a significant contribution.

    Despite the early setback, Verreynne partnered with Kagiso Rabada to forge a crucial 55-run partnership, steadying South Africa’s innings. Verreynne exhibited exceptional patience, bringing up his half-century in 95 balls, while Rabada supported him with a gritty approach. Their partnership took South Africa to 324/8 in 100 overs, but the stand was broken when Asitha Fernando dismissed Rabada.

    Even after Rabada’s departure, Verreynne stood tall, reaching a well-earned century in 132 deliveries, a knock that underlined his determination and skill. South Africa’s innings eventually concluded at 358 all out, with Dane Paterson falling as the last wicket. The total provided the hosts with a solid platform, but Sri Lanka’s response quickly shifted the momentum.

    Also READ: SA vs SL: Fans in awe as Kyle Verreynne smashes a spectacular hundred on Day 2 of the second Test

    Sri Lanka’s openers set the tone

    Sri Lanka’s openers, Pathum Nissanka and Dimuth Karunaratne, approached their innings with a cautious mindset, ensuring they did not lose early wickets. They carefully negotiated the six overs before lunch, reaching 19/0, still trailing by a daunting 339 runs.

    After lunch, the pitch at Gqeberha offered a mix of bounce and pace, challenging the batters. The Sri Lankan duo adopted a resolute defensive approach, scoring at a measured rate. However, Karunaratne broke the shackles with three crisp boundaries off Marco Jansen in the 12th and 14th overs, injecting momentum into the innings. Just as the partnership began to blossom, Kagiso Rabada struck, dismissing Karunaratne for 25 and giving South Africa their first breakthrough.

    Despite the setback, Nissanka and Chandimal joined forces to steady the ship. Their partnership blended caution with opportunistic stroke play, ensuring the scoreboard ticked along. By Tea, Sri Lanka had reached 103/1 in 33 overs, reducing the deficit significantly and positioning themselves for a strong finish to the day.

    Pathum Nissanka anchors the post-tea session

    The third session saw Nissanka showcasing his class, as he brought up his seventh Test half-century off 107 deliveries. Anchoring the innings, he formed a vital 109-run partnership with Dinesh Chandimal, which proved instrumental in Sri Lanka’s recovery. The pair displayed a perfect mix of aggression and caution, frustrating the South African bowlers with their ability to rotate the strike and capitalize on loose deliveries.

    Just when the partnership seemed unbreakable, Dane Paterson provided a much-needed breakthrough for the hosts, dismissing Chandimal for a well-made 44. Nissanka, however, continued to dictate terms, building another promising partnership with Angelo Mathews. Together, they guided Sri Lanka to 175/2 in 51 overs, trailing by 183 runs.

    Angelo Mathews and Kamindu Mendis provide stability at stumps

    Nissanka’s innings came to an unfortunate end when he fell to Keshav Maharaj for a superb 89, attempting an ambitious shot that did not come off. His departure left Sri Lanka at 199/3, but the platform he had built ensured the visitors maintained control. As the day drew to a close, Mathews (37 not out) and Kamindu Mendis (21 not out) held fort, steering Sri Lanka to 242/3 at stumps. Their unbroken partnership added crucial runs, setting the stage for a strong Day 3. With the deficit reduced to just 116 runs and seven wickets in hand, Sri Lanka holds the upper hand in this Test match. The third day promises to be a critical juncture, with South Africa seeking early breakthroughs to wrest back control, while Sri Lanka will aim to build a first-innings lead to dictate terms in this fascinating contest.

    Also WATCH: SA vs SL – Lahiru Kumara picks his 100th Test wicket with an unplayable delivery to Aiden Markram



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  • SL vs NZ: Fans erupt as Kamindu Mendis shatters records with 5th Test century on Day 2 of the 2nd Test

    SL vs NZ: Fans erupt as Kamindu Mendis shatters records with 5th Test century on Day 2 of the 2nd Test

    Kamindu Mendis showcased his remarkable talent for Sri Lanka during the second Test against New Zealand, hitting his fifth hundred in just 13 innings – a testament to his extraordinary start in Test cricket.

    Stellar performance in Galle by Kamindu Mendis

    The milestone was achieved on Day 2 of the match at the Galle International Stadium, where Kamindu’s performance propelled Sri Lanka past the 400-run mark. Mendis reached his century in 147 balls, marking his second ton of the series and his third fifty-plus score in as many innings. His innings included a significant partnership with Angelo Mathews, as the duo amassed a 100-run stand for the fourth wicket in 125 balls during the first session of the second day. This performance underscored Kamindu’s pivotal role in stabilizing the Sri Lankan innings.

    Contributions from Teammates

    Earlier, Dimuth Karunaratne provided a solid start with 46 runs before being run out. Dinesh Chandimal played a pivotal role, scoring 116 off 208 balls, and showcasing resilience at the crease. Mathews contributed significantly with 88 runs, anchoring the innings effectively. Dhananjaya de Silva added 44 runs, while Kamindu remained unbeaten on 113, accelerating the scoring towards the end. Sri Lanka demonstrated depth in batting and so far reached 445/5, capitalizing on the New Zealand bowling attack, particularly Glenn Phillips, who took three wickets.

    Historic achievements for Sri Lanka

    Mendis’ fifth century not only highlights his rapid ascent in Test cricket but also places him among the legends of the game. He is now joint-third fastest to five Test hundreds from debut, equaling the likes of Don Bradman and George Headley, both achieving the feat in 13 innings. Only Everton Weekes (10 innings), Herbert Sutcliffe (12 innings) and Robert Harvey (12 innings) have reached this milestone quicker.

    Additionally, Kamindu has set a new Asian record, eclipsing Pakistan’s Fawad Alam, who reached five centuries in 22 innings, while also surpassing Aravinda de Silva‘s Sri Lankan record of five hundreds in 38 innings. With his performances this year, Kamindu has overtaken Joe Root for the most Test hundreds, with five to his name.

    Also WATCH: Dimuth Karunaratne loses cool at Dinesh Chandimal after his unfortunate run out | SL vs NZ, 2nd Test

    On track for further milestones

    Kamindu is also on the brink of becoming the fastest Asian to reach 1,000 Test runs, having already crossed the 900-run mark in just 13 innings. Vinod Kambli currently holds the record for the quickest Asian to 1,000 runs, achieving the milestone in 14 innings. Kamindu’s stellar performance against New Zealand not only cements his status as a rising star but also raises expectations for his future contributions to Sri Lankan cricket.

    Here’s how Fans reacted:

    Also READ: Fans react as Dinesh Chandimal hits a stunning century in the 2nd Test against New Zealand



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  • PAK vs BAN: Netizens react as Bangladesh stun Pakistan in Rawalpindi Test to register a clean sweep

    PAK vs BAN: Netizens react as Bangladesh stun Pakistan in Rawalpindi Test to register a clean sweep

    In a stunning turn of events, the Bangladesh cricket team etched their name in history by clinching a comprehensive 2-0 victory over Pakistan in the two-match Test series, culminating in a resounding win by six wickets at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The Tigers’ triumph over their arch-rivals in their own backyard is a testament to their resilience and determination.

    Bangladesh completes the sweep

    The final day of the second Test witnessed a dramatic collapse from the Pakistan batting lineup, as they were bundled out for a paltry 172 runs in their second innings. Bangladesh, resuming their innings at 40 for no loss, comfortably chased down the target of 185 runs to secure a victory by six wickets.

    Also WATCH: Mir Hamza delivers an absolute peach to send Zakir Hasan packing on Day 5 of 2nd Test

    Litton Das’s Stellar Knock

    Wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das played a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s success, scoring a crucial 138 runs in the first innings. His partnership with Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who contributed 78 runs, helped the Tigers post a respectable total of 262 runs.

    Pakistan’s batting woes

    Despite a fighting half-century from Agha Salman in the second innings, Pakistan’s batting order failed to deliver. The hosts’ top-order batters struggled to adapt to the conditions, and their middle order collapsed under pressure.

    Bangladesh’s bowling prowess

    The Bangladesh bowlers, led by Taskin Ahmed and Hasan Mahmud, wreaked havoc on the Pakistan batting lineup. Their disciplined bowling and ability to extract movement from the pitch proved too much for the hosts to handle.

    Scorecard Summary

    1st Innings:

    • Bangladesh: 262 all out (78.4 overs)
    • Pakistan: 274 all out (85.1 overs)

    2nd Innings:

    • Pakistan: 172 all out (46.4 overs)
    • Bangladesh:185-4 (56 Ov)

    Player of the Match: Litton Das (Bangladesh)

    Player of the Series: Mehidy Hasan Miraz (Bangladesh)

    Series Result: Bangladesh won the match by 6 wickets and the series 2-0

    This victory marks a historic moment for Bangladesh cricket, as it is their first-ever Test series win in Pakistan. The Tigers’ triumph will undoubtedly boost their confidence and inspire a new generation of cricketers in the country.

    Here’s how netizens reacted:

    Also WATCH: Abrar Ahmed sprints to avoid time-out dismissal on Day 4 of second Test



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  • Joe Root, Gus Atkinson propel England to commanding position against Sri Lanka on Day 1 of the 2nd Test

    Joe Root, Gus Atkinson propel England to commanding position against Sri Lanka on Day 1 of the 2nd Test

    England’s initial difficulties against the new ball were overshadowed by Joe Root’s 33rd Test century and Gus Atkinson’s robust 74 on Day 1 of the second Test against Sri Lanka at Lord’s. Sri Lanka’s pace trio – Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara and Milan Rathnayake – each claimed a couple of wickets, demonstrating their effectiveness on a challenging pitch.

    England’s early struggles and Joe Root’s resilience

    England, having lost the toss and being asked to bat first, faced early challenges as the Sri Lankan bowlers exploited the conditions. Although welcoming the chance to bat first, England’s captain Ollie Pope saw his top-order falter. Lahiru Kumara dismissed Dan Lawrence in the seventh over, and Asitha Fernando’s change of ends led to the removal of Pope within the first hour. Despite these setbacks, Ben Duckett scored a solid 40 before being dismissed while attempting a reverse sweep against the spin. The introduction of Harry Brook alongside Root steadied the innings, as the duo added 97 runs in 23 overs before lunch, navigating the team to 97 for three.

    Also READ: ENG vs SL: Fans go wild as Joe Root equals Alastair Cook’s record for England with 33rd Test century at Lord’s

    Harry Brook and Root’s stand and subsequent dismissals

    In the second session, Brook and Root’s partnership appeared steady until Fernando’s swinging delivery deceived Brook, who was out for 33. Root, however, continued to anchor the innings, marking his 65th fifty in Test cricket. Jamie Smith, despite struggling at times, was dismissed for 21 by Milan Rathnayake, leaving England at 200/ five by tea, with Chris Woakes joining Root.

    Root’s milestone and Gus Atkinson’s flourish

    Woakes and Root faced a barrage of short deliveries from Lahiru Kumara, with Kumara eventually dismissing Woakes in the 59th over. Root, having faced twelve dot balls, reached his 33rd Test century, matching Sir Alastair Cook’s record for most Test centuries by an English batters. Atkinson then showcased his batting prowess with impressive lofted shots, cover drives, and powerful hits. The pair added 92 runs for the seventh wicket, propelling England past the 300-run mark. Root’s innings came to an end for 143 after an attempted reverse scoop just before the second new ball became available. Despite this, the Sri Lankan bowlers failed to capitalize on the new ball, and Matthew Potts and Atkinson added a further 50 runs before stumps, leaving England at 358/7.

    Also READ: Australia batter announces retirement at a young age of 26



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