South Africa Falter, Sri Lanka Shine in Kingsmead's Gloom

Rain and Bad Light Force Early Lunch and Abandonment of Play

The first day of the Test match between South Africa and Sri Lanka at Kingsmead was marked by rain and bad light, forcing an early lunch and eventual abandonment of play. The match was reduced to 20.4 overs, with Sri Lanka's bowling display proving to be the decisive factor.

Sri Lanka's Bowling Display

Sri Lanka's bowling team made the most of the conditions, with the Fernandos – Asitha and Vishwa – removing Aiden Markram and Tony de Zorzi in the first 20 balls bowled. The swing was evident, with the first 10 overs being the swingiest in a Test in South Africa since records began.

South Africa's Batting Performance

South Africa's batting performance was hampered by the conditions and Sri Lanka's bowling display. Temba Bavuma was the only notable performer, scoring 28 not out after being reprieved for a wild slap at Lahiru Kumara's legside bouncer.

Ashwell Prince's Assessment

South Africa's batting coach, Ashwell Prince, attributed the team's poor performance to the conditions and Sri Lanka's bowling display. He praised Bavuma's resilience and encouraged the team to focus on their successes rather than their shortcomings.

Preview for Day 2

The forecast for the rest of the match is significantly more suitable for cricket, with the sun expected to shine on Thursday. South Africa will need to get through the first hour with minimal damage to build a score.