South Africa vs Sri Lanka: rain restricts play to 20.4 overs on first day

DURBAN, South Africa: Persistent rain allowed only 20.4 overs of play on the opening day of the first Test between South Africa and Sri Lanka at Kingsmead on Wednesday, overshadowing a strong start by Sri Lanka’s seamers. 

Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne elected to bowl under overcast skies, a decision his bowlers vindicated by reducing South Africa to 85-4 before rain halted play just before lunch. The match was officially called off around 3pm, according to Cricinfo. 

Vishwa Fernando and Asitha Fernando spearheaded Sri Lanka’s attack, exploiting the moisture in the pitch to trouble the South African batters. Left-armer Vishwa swung the ball significantly, claiming Tony de Zorzi’s wicket with a sharp delivery caught at slip. Asitha struck early as well, removing Aiden Markram in the cordon. 

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Lahiru Kumara, Sri Lanka’s quickest bowler, overcame a wayward start to dismiss Tristan Stubbs and David Bedingham in quick succession, the latter bowled spectacularly with his off stump sent cartwheeling. 

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma anchored the innings with an unbeaten 28 off 47 balls, surviving two chances. He was dropped on 1 by Karunaratne at slip and reprieved on 20 after edging a Kumara bouncer off a no-ball. Kyle Verreynne was at the crease with Bavuma when rain ended the day. 

While Kumara finished with figures of 2-35 from four overs, Vishwa and Asitha were more economical, conceding less than three runs per over. 

The weather forecast for Thursday is more promising, giving Sri Lanka hope of capitalizing further on their disciplined bowling performance.