Kyle Verreynne’s explosive batting led South Africa to a strong position against Sri Lanka, highlighted by his stunning century and Dane Paterson’s crucial breakthroughs. As we look at the day two’s highlights.
Bang! Bang! Bang! : Kyle Verreynne
The Proteas wicket-keeper was in a free wheel mood yesterday morning as he looked to score as many runs with the tail as quickly as possible. He had already taken three boundaries off the previous over before smoking two sixes off Fernando’s next. The third maximum had extra significance as it took Verreynne to a superb Test century.
5⃣0⃣ overs played in the 2nd innings.
— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) December 6, 2024
🇱![CDATA[]]>🇰Sri Lanka are 166/2 with Mathews at the crease supporting Nissanka.
They trail by 192 runs still🏏#WozaNawe#BePartOfIt #SAvSL pic.twitter.com/PPHWY6ZAXv
Celebration: Kyle Verreynne
Ryan Rickelton just looked up to the heavens in relief when he reached the three-figure milestone on the opening day, but Verreynne is much more of a showman. The 27-year-old was elated with reaching his third Test ton and duly hauled out his trademark bow to the dressing room.
Nightmare: David Bedingham
“Bedders” delivered a shocking 19-ball innings, and now suffered further torment when he dropped Sri Lankan opener Nissanka at slip off Kagiso Rabada. To compound matters, Bedingham juggled the chance at least three times before the ball hit the ground which infuriated a frustrated Rabada even more.
Mr Reliable: Dane Paterson
Proteas Test captain Temba Bavuma spoke prior to the start of the Test what skills veteran seamer Dane Paterson would add to the home team’s attack. He felt that Paterson had the ability to bowl wicket-to-wicket, while also having the ability to nick off the Sri Lankan batters. And that’s exactly what Paterson did to create the much-needed breakthrough for South Africa by drawing Dinesh Chandimal forward before finding the outside edge that snuck through to Verreynne behind the wicket.