Sri Lanka Sets Record Low Test Total of 42 Against South Africa

In a shocking display of batting ineptitude, Sri Lanka has set a new record for the lowest total in their Test cricket history, collapsing to a mere 42 runs against South Africa at Kingsmead in Durban. This dismal performance occurred on the second day of the first Test match, where fast bowler Marco Jansen was the star of the show, claiming an impressive 7 wickets for just 13 runs. The previous record for Sri Lanka's lowest innings total was 71, which they scored against Pakistan in Kandy back in 1994.

To put this in perspective, the overall record for the lowest score in Test cricket remains New Zealand's paltry 26 runs against England in Auckland in 1955. Furthermore, Sri Lanka's total of 42 is now the lowest ever recorded by any team against South Africa, surpassing New Zealand's previous low of 45 runs in Cape Town in 2013. This match also marked the second shortest completed innings in Test cricket history, lasting only 83 balls, just eight balls shy of the record set by South Africa when they were bowled out for 30 runs against England in Birmingham in 1924.

On a pitch that has favored seam bowlers, only two Sri Lankan batsmen managed to reach double figures. Kamindu Mendis was the top scorer for Sri Lanka, hitting three boundaries to make 13 runs before he edged a loose drive off Jansen to first slip. Meanwhile, number 10 batsman Lahiru Kumara managed to score 10 not out, including two fours, but his efforts were not enough to save the team from this embarrassing defeat.

Earlier in the match, South Africa had been bowled out for 191 runs, with captain Temba Bavuma leading the charge with a solid 70 runs. The only other South African batsman to score more than 20 runs was Keshav Maharaj, who contributed a quick 24 runs while batting at number 10. With a lead of 149 runs going into their second innings, South Africa is in a commanding position.

This match serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of cricket, where even the most seasoned teams can falter dramatically. For Sri Lanka, this performance raises serious questions about their batting lineup and strategy moving forward. As fans and analysts alike reflect on this historic low, it is crucial for the team to regroup and reassess their approach to the game. The road ahead will require resilience and determination if they hope to bounce back from this setback and restore their reputation on the international stage.