SL's Late Strikes Balance Day 1 After Rickelton's Century

Sri Lanka's bowlers made crucial breakthroughs late on the opening day of the second Test at St. George's Park, keeping South Africa to 269 for 7. Ryan Rickelton’s maiden Test century was the highlight of the day, though his efforts were bracketed by early and late flurries of wickets that left the match evenly poised. 

South Africa opted to bat but faced immediate setbacks. In the second over, Asitha Fernando trapped Tony de Zorzi for a golden duck with a low full toss. Aiden Markram then played a few crisp strokes but fell to Lahiru Kumara, who later dismissed Tristan Stubbs, leaving the hosts reeling at 44 for 3. 

The momentum shifted with Temba Bavuma’s aggressive counterattack and Rickelton’s steady approach. Bavuma struck boundaries and even lofted Prabath Jayasuriya for a six, adding 133 runs for the fourth wicket with Rickelton. However, Bavuma fell to a short-ball trap by Asitha Fernando, departing for 78 just before lunch. 

In the final session, Prabath Jayasuriya ended David Bedingham’s scratchy stay, but Rickelton and Kyle Verreynne rebuilt the innings with a 77-run partnership. Rickelton reached his maiden century despite taking several blows but edged Kumara to gully soon after. Sri Lanka struck again in the next over, as Marco Jansen chopped Vishwa Fernando onto his stumps. 

Kyle Verreynne, unbeaten on 48, will resume Day 2 as South Africa seeks to add vital runs against a disciplined Sri Lankan attack. 

Brief Scores: South Africa 269/7 (Rickelton 101, Bavuma 78; Kumara 3-54, Fernando 2-67).