Twitter reactions: Tristan Stubbs and Temba Bavuma’s partnership lifts South Africa against Sri Lanka on Day 3 of the second Test

Day 3 of the second Test between South Africa and Sri Lanka at St George’s Park proved pivotal as South Africa extended their lead to 221 runs, showcasing a blend of resilience and aggression. With a commanding position established, the Proteas now look poised to capitalize on their advantage as they head into the final couple of days of the match.

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South Africa’s strong stand on Day 3

At stumps on Day 3, South Africa reached 191/3 in their second, thanks largely to the contributions of Aiden Markram, Temba Bavuma, and Tristan Stubbs. Markram scored a crucial 55 runs, while Bavuma and Stubbs added crucial runs so far. Prabath Jayasuriya provided some resistance with the ball for Sri Lanka, taking two wickets for 75 runs. His spin bowling hinted at potential threats for South Africa as the pitch began to show signs of wear, which could play a crucial role in the remaining days of the Test. Earlier in the first essay, South Africa posted 358.

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Sri Lanka’s struggle with spin

Sri Lanka began their first innings, in response of South Africa’s 358, with promise but faltered under pressure from South African bowlers. Pathum Nissanka top-scored with a gritty 89, supported by Kamindu Mendis and Angelo Mathews who each contributed valuable runs. However, the inability of the lower order to capitalize on solid starts led to their downfall as they were bowled out for less than South Africa’s total.

Dane Paterson‘s remarkable bowling performance was instrumental in restricting Sri Lanka to 328 in their first innings. Paterson claimed five wickets for 71 runs, marking his first Test five-for. His ability to exploit the conditions and maintain tight lines proved vital in dismantling the Sri Lankan batting order.

Temba Bavuma’s resilience and Tristan Stubbs’ aggression

As of stumps on Day 3, South Africa has scored 191 runs for the loss of three wickets, leading by 221 runs overall. Bavuma remains unbeaten on 48 runs, while Stubbs has contributed 36 not out. The duo built an unbroken partnership of 82 runs for the fourth wicket, effectively pulling away from Sri Lanka after a shaky start. Their collaboration has been instrumental in stabilizing the innings after the fall of three early wickets. With Bavuma displaying aggression at a strike rate of 60.75 and Stubbs showing patience with a strike rate of 38.70, they have effectively balanced the need for runs with careful batting.

This partnership has added significant momentum to South Africa’s innings, allowing them to extend their lead considerably. As they look to build a formidable score heading into the final days of the match, their performance is critical in placing pressure on the Sri Lankan bowlers to make quick breakthroughs. Keshav Maharaj could prove pivotal if he finds assistance from the pitch. Sri Lanka will need to break through early on Day 4 to keep their hopes alive. With only three wickets down and a daunting target ahead, they must aim to dismiss Bavuma and Stubbs quickly while also keeping an eye on South Africa’s aggressive lower order.