Twitter reactions: Ryan Rickelton’s ton anchors South Africa before Sri Lanka stage late comeback on Day 1 of second Test

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South Africa and Sri Lanka produced an intriguing battle on the opening day of the second Test at St George’s Park, Gqeberha. Opting to bat first, the hosts found themselves in early trouble before Ryan Rickelton’s maiden century and Temba Bavuma’s aggressive knock brought them back into the game. However, a spirited fightback from Sri Lanka in the final session left South Africa precariously placed at 269 for 7 by stumps.

Ryan Rickelton’s maiden ton steadies South Africa

Rickelton’s first Test century was the highlight of a thrilling first day. The left-hander showcased tremendous composure during his 101-run knock, holding South Africa’s innings together after early blows. Supported by Bavuma’s counterattacking 78, Rickelton ensured the hosts stayed competitive despite frequent setbacks.

Early wickets give Sri Lanka the edge

Sri Lanka struck early after Asitha Fernando trapped Toni de Zorzi lbw with a low full toss in just the second over, sending him back for a golden duck. Aiden Markram followed soon after, bowled by Lahiru Kumara’s delivery that jagged back sharply. Kumara continued his fine spell by dismissing Tristan Stubbs, reducing the hosts to a precarious 44 for 3.

Temba Bavuma and Rickelton revive the innings

Bavuma and Rickelton steadied the innings with a vital 133-run stand for the fourth wicket. Bavuma played an attacking brand of cricket, pulling and driving with authority, particularly against Prabath Jayasuriya. Meanwhile, Rickelton played a more measured innings, finding his rhythm after the initial pressure. Bavuma’s counterattacking knock of 78 ended just before lunch when he gloved a short delivery from Asitha to the keeper.

South Africa lose ground in the middle session

The hosts struggled to maintain momentum after lunch, with David Bedingham enduring a tough stay at the crease. He survived two dropped chances before being bowled by Jayasuriya for 9. Despite the setback, Rickelton anchored the innings once again, this time forming a 77-run partnership with Kyle Verryenne. The pair took advantage of errant lengths from Sri Lankan bowlers to keep the scoreboard ticking.

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Sri Lanka’s late strikes shift momentum

Rickelton, who displayed resilience and skill throughout the day, brought up his maiden Test century with a single to mid-on. However, his dismissal for 101, edging Kumara to gully in the penultimate over, turned the tide in Sri Lanka’s favor. Marco Jansen followed suit, inside-edging a delivery from Vishwa Fernando onto his stumps. Kyle Verryenne remained unbeaten on 48, but Sri Lanka ended the day with the momentum firmly in their grasp.

Here is how Twitter reacted:

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