Sri Lanka though have given them a score to fight! They have variety in their bowling and not to forget a similar score was defended on the 29th of October. Can it be done again? South Africa though have a strong batting line-up and will fancy themselves to chase this down. Stay tuned for the second essay.
Tabraiz Shamsi is in for a chat. He says, hitting the areas is the key and that paid off. States the run out was important and it came at the right time for them. Adds he is happy with the accolades but it is a team effort and he is just one of them contributing.
Lanka were probably guilty of being way too aggressive. They were just going after everything. Except for Nissanka and Asalanka (who was run out) the rest just gifted their wickets away, playing rash shots when not needed. Had it not been Nissanka who played brilliantly, they would have fallen well short of a competitive score. He needed someone else to give him able support, there were a few who got off to starts but none managed to convert it into something significant. They could have well go
Have to say South Africa will be pleased with their effort with the ball on a wicket which does not seem that bad. The key for them was wickets at regular intervals. Everytime the momentum seemed like slipping, South Africa managed to strike. It was Nortje who started things off. Maharaj and Shamsi were really good in the middle overs. Pretorius was also very good after he was got on. Rabada though had a day to forget, had he been at his best, South Africa would have well been chasing 15 less. T
Anrich Nortje to Lahiru Kumara, ! RUN OUT! Lahiru Kumara sacrifices his wicket on the last ball! Back of a length, outside off. Lahiru Kumara misses his slog but the batters look to sneak in a bye! Quinton de Kock collects the ball cleanly behind the sticks and throws it back to Anrich Nortje. Nortje catches it and whips the bails off at his end. Lahiru Kumara is short of his crease and Sri Lanka are bundled out for 142.
Lahiru Kumara comes out to bat now.
Anrich Nortje to Dushmantha Chameera, ! BOWLED! YOU MISS, I HIT, says Anrich Nortje! Good-length ball, around off. Dushmantha Chameera looks to heave it across the line but he misses and the ball crashes onto his off stump.
Anrich Nortje to Maheesh Theekshana, Length ball, around off. Maheesh Theekshana drills it to long on for a run.
Anrich Nortje to Maheesh Theekshana, ! STREAKY! Crucial runs for Sri Lanka these! Short of a length, on middle. Maheesh Theekshana backs away and looks to push it through covers. He gets a thick outside edge and the ball goes past keeper and into the fence.
Anrich Nortje to Maheesh Theekshana, Excellent running! Good-length ball, on middle. Maheesh Theekshana tucks it to the leg side and collects a couple of runs.
Anrich Nortje is back into the attack to bowl the final over of the innings.
Anrich Nortje to Dushmantha Chameera, Leg bye! Back of a length, angling in from middle. Dushmantha Chameera misses his heave and gets hit high on his thigh pad. The batters sneak in a leg bye!
Maheesh Theekshana walks out at number 10.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dushmantha Chameera, Slower ball, on a length, outside off. Dushmantha Chameera shuffles across and heaves it to wide of the deep mid-wicket fielder. Two to end the over!
Dwaine Pretorius to Dushmantha Chameera, Fuller in length, outside off. Dushmantha Chameera moves across and heaves it to deep mid-wicket for a couple.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, ! TAKEN! Brilliant innings from Pathum Nissanka comes to an end! Dwaine Pretorius picks up his third wicket! Another slower ball, into the pitch, around off. Pathum Nissanka looks to pull but he only manages a top edge and the ball goes straight to Anrich Nortje at deep mid-wicket who takes a good catch.
Who will walk out now? Dushmantha Chameera it is.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, Slower ball, on a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka looks to reverse sweep but he fails to get any bat on it.
Dwaine Pretorius to Chamika Karunaratne, ! CAUGHT! Another one bites the dust! Slower ball, into the pitch, around middle. Chamika Karunaratne skips down and looks to heave it away but he gets a top edge and the ball goes to the right of the long on fielder. Rassie van der Dussen at long on, runs there and takes a good catch.
Dwaine Pretorius to Chamika Karunaratne, Full ball, outside off. Chamika Karunaratne drives it to wide of deep cover and takes a couple.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! WOW! Shot of the day, probably! Rabada bowls it into the deck, just outside off. Pathum Nissanka stands tall and carves it past the extra cover fielder. The ball races away to the fence.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! Lovely shot! Short of a length, around off. Pathum Nissanka stays back and smacks it through square leg for a boundary.
Kagiso Rabada to Chamika Karunaratne, Length ball, outside off. Chamika Karunaratne pushes it to cover and collects a run.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, In the air, but safe! Slower ball, on a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka skips down and looks to drive but he gets a top edge behind point. A single taken!
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! BANG! Pathum Nissanka is in the mood! Short of a length, outside off. Nissanka hangs back and sends it sailing way over deep mid-wicket for a biggie!
Kagiso Rabada (2-0-15-0) is back on. He replaces Anrich Nortje.
Kagiso Rabada to Chamika Karunaratne, Rabada hits the deck hard, around off. Chamika Karunaratne pushes it past point for a run.
Dwaine Pretorius to Chamika Karunaratne, Good-length ball, outside off. Chamika Karunaratne taps it to backward point and takes a single.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, Back of a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka punches it to sweeper cover for a run.
Chamika Karunaratne walks out at number 8.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, ! TAKEN! Dwaine Pretorius' plan comes off and that is a really good catch from Kagiso Rabada at sweeper cover. Pretorius sticks to his plan, bowls it full and outside off. Dasun Shanaka slices it uppishly. Kagiso Rabada at sweeper cover runs in and takes a good low catch.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, ! Edgy, but Dasun Shanaka will take that! Back of a length, outside off. Shanaka looks to cut but gets a thick outside edge. The ball flies over the keeper and goes into the fence.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, Leg bye! Length ball, outside off. Pathum Nissanka tries to be cheeky and looks to scoop it over the keeper but he misses and gets hit on the pads. The ball rolls away for a leg bye.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, ! This is clever from Pathum Nissanka! Full ball, way outside off. Nissanka moves across and whips it past the square leg fielder for a boundary.
Anrich Nortje to Dasun Shanaka, ! A welcome boundary for Dasun Shanaka and Sri Lanka! The Lankans bring up their 100 as well! Good-length ball, around off. Shanaka hoicks it over extra cover and collects a boundary.
Anrich Nortje to Dasun Shanaka, Back of a length, around off. Dasun Shanaka taps it to backward point.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Short of a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka stands tall and looks to slog but he gets the toe end. The ball goes towards David Miller at long on for a single.
Anrich Nortje to Dasun Shanaka, Good-length ball, around off. Dasun Shanaka taps it to wide of cover and takes an easy single.
Anrich Nortje (2-0-13-1)Â is back on now.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Length ball, angling in from middle. Pathum Nissanka flicks it to deep square leg for a run.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Swing and a miss! Back of a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka looks to heave it away but he misses.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, FIFTY for Nissanka. What an innings, a lot has been happening on the other end. But Nissanka made sure he keeps one end intact. A hard-fought knock by him. Just, when it mattered the most.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Pretorius continues to bowl wide and outside off. Shanaka pushes it through covers for a single.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Full and wide outside off. Shanaka get low and looks to slash it away but misses it again. He is frustrated with himsef. 4 dots on the trot.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Three dots in a row! A length ball, outside off. The ball moves away. Shanaka comes out and across hoping to connect but does not do it this time as well.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Fuller and wide outside off. The ball stays low. Shanaka looks to go after it but misses.Â
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, A full-length ball, outside off. Shanaka comes across and looks to chase it but misses.
Dwaine Pretorius comes to bowl now.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Dasun Shanaka, Flighted, full and on off. Shanaka flicks it towards mid-wicket and gets a single. Shamsi ends his spell of 4 with 3 wickets and he gave away only 17 runs.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Dasun Shanaka, Full and outside off. Shanaka guides it towards short third man.
Sri Lanka's skipper, Dasun Shanaka walks out to bat.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Wanindu Hasaranga, ! CAUGHT! Wanindu Hasaranga has shown his intent of attack but he should've started off slowly. But that's not how he plays. Hasaranga looks to clear the fence at long on and pays the price. Floated, full, around middle and leg. Hasaranga goes back and lifts it towards long on. Aiden Markram there comes forward and takes a good diving catch. Half of the Sri Lanka side has been sent back.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Flatter and outside off. Nissanka stays on the back foot and pulls it towards mid-wicket for a single.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and down leg. Nissanka sweeps it towards short fine leg, but straight to the man.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Wanindu Hasaranga, Floated, full and around off. Hasaranga comes down the track and lifts it towards long off. They take one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Tossed up, around off. Nissanka taps it to point. A good over for Sri Lanka, 10 runs off it. These two batters need to make sure they take things deep.
Keshav Maharaj to Wanindu Hasaranga, Darted on the pads. Hasaranga stays back and nudges it to square leg for a run.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Flighted, full and on off. Nissanka eases it down to long off for a single.
Keshav Maharaj to Wanindu Hasaranga, Another single now! Flatter, around middle and leg. Hasaranga clips it to mid-wicket for a run.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Floated, around middle. Nissanka flicks it to mid-wicket for a single.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, ! A much-needed maximum for Lanka. Pathum Nissanka gets into the attack now. Short and on off. Nissanka hangs back and smokes it over the mid-wicket fence for a maximum.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and on off. Nissanka pushes it towards long on for another single. Shamsi with another great over, 7 runs and a wicket off it.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Wanindu Hasaranga, Tossed up, on middle. Hasaranga comes forward and lofts it through mid-wicket. They take one.
Wanindu Hasaranga walks out to bat.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Avishka Fernando, ! CAUGHT AND BOWLED! Tabraiz Shamsi does it again and he is off for his celebration, just like Imran Tahir. Yet another low scoring innnigs by Fernando, he has found it difficult to score in the Super 12s. Full and on off. Fernando ends up chipping it back to Shamsi. He grabs it safely yet again. Sri Lanka are in a spot of bother.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Floated, on middle. Nissanka flicks it towards mid-wicket for a single.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, This one just falls short of Shamsi. Floated, full and on off. Nissanka comes forward and ends up playing it back to the bowler. The ball though stays very low and lands short of Shamsi.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, ! Up and over! Tossed up, full and outside off. Nissanka was equal to the task. He opens up and lifts it over extra cover for a boundary.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, A single to end! On off, this is pushed down to long off for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Avishka Fernando, Angled into the pads, Fernando now flicks it through mid-wicket for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Angled into the pads, Nissanka works it towards short fine leg for one.
Review time! South Africa opt for yet another review as Pathum Nissanka has been hit on his pads. The Ball Tracker shows that the ball would have clipped the leg stump. It is umpire's call and the on-field decision stays.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Nissanka steps out but the length is shortened. He looks to drive but gets an inside edge onto the pads.
Keshav Maharaj to Avishka Fernando, On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, NOT ! Umpire's call as it is clipping the leg pole! Nissanka comes down the track and Maharaj bowls it around middle. He tries to flick but misses to get hit on the pads. An appeal but turned down. It is reviewed. Replays show that it does not straighten enough. South Africa do not lose the review though. Also, it is a leg bye as the batters crossed.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and on the pads. Nissanka flicks it towards fine leg. The batters pick three runs. A good over by Tabraiz Shamsi, 6 runs and a wicket off it.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, NOT ! Loopy ball, full and down leg. Nissanka looks to flick it away but misses. Quinton de Kock was quick to move to his left and flick the bails. He appeals for stumping, the umpire takes it upstairs to confirm. The UltraEdge shows the bat is absent. The replays show the foot was grounded as the bails were coming off. In the end it is just a wide.
DRINKS! Sri Lanka have lost two wickets in quick succession just at the stroke of Drinks and South Africa would be happier of the two sides at the halfway mark! The Lankan batters will need to take the innings deep and then tee off at the fag end. Avishka Fernando walks out to bat now.
A stumping decision has been sent upstairs! Looks like a close call this but Pathum Nissanka might just have some part of his foot inside the crease!
Tabraiz Shamsi to Avishka Fernando, On off, Fernando pushes it to cover for a single.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Avishka Fernando, Full and on off. Fernando pushes it out.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, ! CAUGHT AND BOWLED! Tabraiz Shamsi does what he does best. Bhanuka Rajapaksa was sent up the order but that clearly did not work as they planned it out. Sri Lanka have lost their third wicket. Tossed up, full and on off. Rajapaksa looks to flick it to the leg side, but he plays it early. The ball takes the leading edge and chips to the right of Shamsi. He moves to that side, extends his arms and collects it safely. South Africa are all over the La
Keshav Maharaj to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Flatter and on middle, defended. 14 from the over but a big wicket from it.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, ! Charith Asalanka is just short! Charith Asalanka has gifted his wicket to South Africa here just as the momentum seemed to be shifting. Welcome breakthrough for the bowling side. On middle, Asalanka works it through mid-wicket. There is two in it but Charith Asalanka hesitates for a second as he takes off for the second run and that costs him. Rabada gets to the ball and fires in a brilliant through, right next to the stumps. De Kock collects it and
Tabraiz Shamsi to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Floated, full and on off. Bhanuka Rajapaksa looks to sweep it away but does not connect well. He gets an inside edge onto the pads. Quinton de Kock and Tabraiz Shamsi appeal but the umpire is unmoved.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and on off. Nissanka pushes it towards mid on and crosses for a single.
Bhanuka Rajapaksa is the new man in.
A run out decision has been sent upstairs! Charith Asalanka looks to be in trouble as Quinton de Kock, behind the sticks seems very confident!
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Floated up on off, this is pushed down to long off for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, ! Pathum Nissanka now joins the act! The shorter side of the fence and hence, it goes over. He too gets the slog sweep out. He nails it over the mid-wicket fence, just over the leaping fielder there.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Now takes one as he slaps it through covers.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, ! Over the fence! It was the longer part but Asalanka hit it well enough by just! He skips down and Maharaj bowls it short. Asalanka pulls it towards deep mid-wicket. Rabada there leaps brilliantly but it goes just over him. Welcome biggie.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Another loud appeal but this one has probably pitched just outside leg! Nissanka misses the sweep and gets hit on the pads. A really good first over then by Shamsi.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Charith Asalanka, Asalanka comes down the track and makes it into a full toss, this is hit down to long on for one.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Charith Asalanka, On middle, Asalanka pushes it back to the bowler.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Leg bye! Once again sees Nissanka come down the track and bowls it shorter. PN looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and rolls on the leg side. Leg bye.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Slightly shorter and on the pads, Nissanka looks to pull but misses. He was probably coming down the wicket but then tried to hold back. That was a delivery which could be hit.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Flatter and on off, this is pushed back to the bowler.
Tabraiz Shamsi is into the attack now.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Brilliant fielding which means just the 5 from the over. On middle, this is pushed to the left of the bowler who gets there, dives and saves a run for his side.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Out comes the reverse sweep, it goes more off the underedge towards point for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and outside off, this is slapped through covers for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Nissanka comes down the track and works it through mid-wicket for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Angled into the pads, Nissanka works it towards mid-wicket for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, On middle, Pathum Nissanka flicks it through square leg and gets to the other end.
Keshav Maharaj comes into the attack.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, A leg bye to end the 6th! A really good one for Lanka and they are in a decent position after the Powerplay. They have not scored freely but just the one down. The last ball is full and on the pads, Nissanka looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and rolls towards short fine leg. Nortje puts in a late appeal but turned down. A leg bye.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, A quick run! Shorter and on middle, Asalanka initially looks to duck but then guides it to short third man for one.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, ! This is a shot and a half! Stunning! Fuller and on off, Asalanka keeps his shape and just times it uppishly but wide of mid off. Back-to-back boundaries.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, WIDE! Down the leg side this time, Asalanka looks to flick but misses.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Good length and around off, Pathum Nissanka opens the face of the bat and guides it to point. A good over for Lanka. Rabada has been expensive so far. 17 from his 2.
Kagiso Rabada to Charith Asalanka, Back of a length and on off, Asalanka guides it down to third man and gets to the other end.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Now follows the biggie with a single as this is worked through square leg. Good batting.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! Flicked away! A welcome boundary for Lanka! Not a risky shot. This is coming in with the angle, Nissanka shuffles across and heaves it through mid-wicket for a boundary.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, ! Up and over! Not a very pretty shot but effective! Length and on off, Asalanka heaves it, it does not go off the middle but he hits it well enough to get it over square leg for a boundary.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, A slower one outside off, Nissanka drags it through square leg for one more. He was a touch early in the shot.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and on the body, Asalanka looks to pull but misses. It hits the pad and rolls on the leg side. Another leg bye.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Another one, tailing back and on middle, Nissanka plays it late and to point.
Change of ends for Kagiso Rabada.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Good length and on off, Nissanka blocks.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, On middle, Asalanka works it to mid-wicket. A successful over from Nortje.
Charith Asalanka walks out to bat.
Anrich Nortje to Kusal Perera, ! TIMBER! Perera walks back for yet another low score and it is Nortje who provides the breakthrough! Slightly shorter in length and on middle, Perera looks to pull but this one does not bounce a lot. He misses and the middle pole is uprooted. This is a really good start for South Africa.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, On off, Nissanka guides it down to third man and gets to the other end.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Yet another delivery which could have been put away but not put away! Short and wide outside off, Nissanka cuts but to point.
Anrich Nortje to Kusal Perera, Perera misses out! Short and on the pads, Perera looks to pull but it hits the pad and rolls towards short fine leg. A leg bye taken.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Too full but the gap is not found! Fuller and on off, Pathum Nissanka drives, the man at mid off moves to his left and keeps it down to one.
Anrich Nortje comes to bowl.
Review time! Temba Bavuma has opted for a review as Kusal Perera has been struck on his pad. The Ball Tracker clearly shows that the impact was well outside off and Kusal Perera survives.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Another single to end! Markram continues to keep it tidy! On middle, this is eased down to long on.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Slightly shorter, Pathum Nissanka pulls it hard but to mid-wicket.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, On middle, this is worked towards mid-wicket for one.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, NOT ! Impact outside off! It did seem that way and that is how it remained. South Africa lose a review. This is fired outside off. Perera looks to sweep but misses. He gets hit on the pads. A huge appeal but turned down. Bavuma reviews but replays show it is not a good one.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, Angled into the pads, Perera works it to square leg.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Gives it flight and bowls it outside off, PN drags it towards long on for one.
Kagiso Rabada to Kusal Perera, ! Nice and fine! A boundary to end! Second in the over and Perera's first! Another gift for the batter. It is on the pads, Perera works it fine and this one races away to the fence.
Kagiso Rabada to Kusal Perera, Width on offer this time, it is outside off, Perera goes after it but he gets it off the underedge to the cover fielder.
Kagiso Rabada to Kusal Perera, Ouch! That might have hurt! On the pads, it is worked to short fine leg. The fielder has a shy but he throws it towards the batter by mistake. Perera though jumps early and then gets hit on the body.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Better! Length and on off, Nissanka guides it down to third man for one.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! Fortunate boundary! Sri Lanka won't mind how they come as long as they do. First one of the game. Poor ball by Rabada but that is a poor shot too. Short and wide outside off, Pathum Nissanka has his feet glued to the crease as he tries to cut, he gets an inside edge, it goes past the off pole and down to the fine leg fence.
Who will bowl from the other end? Kagiso Rabada it is!
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Good length and on middle, Pathum Nissanka plays it to mid on.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, A quiet first over then! Just the 5 from it! On middle, Pathum Nissanka flicks it through wide mid on for one.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, On middle, Nissanka works it to mid-wicket.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, Yet another one! Angled into the pads, Perera nudges it to mid-wicket and gets to the other end.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Flatter again and on the stumps, it is once again pushed down to long on for one more.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, Confusion but safe! Also, excellent from de Kock! On middle, this is worked to square leg. Rabada runs to his right but as he tries to pick the ball up, slips, he lets it through. Pathum Nissanka wants another and sets off but is sent back. The throw to de Kock is a wide one. He collects and without looking, flicks it back onto the stumps but the batter is in.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Sri Lanka and Pathum Nissanka are underway! Flatter and on off, this one skids through, it is pushed down to long on for one.
The players of both the teams are out for their respective national anthems! First, it will be the anthem of Sri Lanka followed by the anthem of South Africa! We are done with all the formalities and are set for the action! The players of South Africa are in a huddle before spreading out on the field! Kusal Perera and Pathum Nissanka are the opening batters for Sri Lanka. Before we begin, the players from both teams take knee to show their fight against racism! Aiden Markram to start with t
Aiden Markram is up for a chat. He says that they had few challenging days but they want to give their best in this competition and they don't want to bother about the things that are going outside. Tells that he is enjoying his batting and he is still learning on playing in such conditions. Says that Sri Lanka are a good side and they are certainly up for the challenge. Tells that the pitch does not look that bad and they have watched the previous game that was played on the similar track.
Dasun Shanaka, the skipper of Sri Lanka, says that they have played two games at Sharjah and they know the conditions really well. Tells that their batters as well as bowlers have played here before and they exactly know what to do. Informs that they are unchanged.
The skipper of South Africa, Temba Bavuma says they have one change, de Kock comes in for Klaasen. States the team is feeling a lot better than they were a cople of days ago, de Kock is in a much-better mindset and they are looking forward to this game. Adds the first 5 overs will be very key for them and that is why they want to bowl first, they want to adapt to the conditions. Ends by saying he assumes the wicket to be slow and low.
South Africa (Playing XI) - Reeza Hendricks, Quinton de Kock (WK) (In for Heinrich Klaasen), Temba Bavuma (C), Aiden Markram, David Miller, Rassie van der Dussen, Dwaine Pretorius, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Tabraiz Shamsi.
TOSS â Both the skippers stride out to the middle for an all-important toss. The coin goes up and lands in favour of South Africa. They have opted to BOWL first.
Things are heating up in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021 as the matches are coming thick and fast. Hello and a very warm welcome to another intriguing contest where South Africa is set to take on Sri Lanka. Both sides have managed to grab 2 points so far and they have all to play for as the race for semi-final is well and truly on.
PITCH REPORT - Daren Sammy is down for the pitch report. He says that the conditions are very hot and as far as the dimensions of the ground are concerned, the straight boundaries are a bit on the bigger side as compared to the square boundaries. Mbangwa is also there, he says the bowlers should hit the deck at the back of a length. Adds, the bowlers should go wide in the death overs, a yorker can be a risky deal.
South Africa, led by Temba Bavuma, have looked a really good unit so far and they would be high on confidence coming into this fixture after having won against the defending champions West Indies in their previous game. The Proteas have a world-class bowling attack, not only on paper but they have proved it with their performance on the field as well. They certainly missed the all-round services of Quinton de Kock in their previous match but there is a possibility that he will be back for this
Sri Lanka, the most consistent side of this mega event in terms of overall wins, started well by winning their opening encounter against Bangladesh but suffered a defeat in their next game. They have batted reasonably well so far but it is their bowling which has been a tad inconsistent. Charith Asalanka, with the bat has been a revelation for them and they would hope that he carries his sublime form into this game. Sri Lankans do have some quality spinners but they haven't been able to make a s
... Match Day ...
The chase is set to begin.
... The Run Chase ...
Sri Lanka though have given them a score to fight! They have variety in their bowling and not to forget a similar score was defended on the 29th of October. Can it be done again? South Africa though have a strong batting line-up and will fancy themselves to chase this down. Stay tuned for the second essay.
Tabraiz Shamsi is in for a chat. He says, hitting the areas is the key and that paid off. States the run out was important and it came at the right time for them. Adds he is happy with the accolades but it is a team effort and he is just one of them contributing.
Lanka were probably guilty of being way too aggressive. They were just going after everything. Except for Nissanka and Asalanka (who was run out) the rest just gifted their wickets away, playing rash shots when not needed. Had it not been Nissanka who played brilliantly, they would have fallen well short of a competitive score. He needed someone else to give him able support, there were a few who got off to starts but none managed to convert it into something significant. They could have well go
Have to say South Africa will be pleased with their effort with the ball on a wicket which does not seem that bad. The key for them was wickets at regular intervals. Everytime the momentum seemed like slipping, South Africa managed to strike. It was Nortje who started things off. Maharaj and Shamsi were really good in the middle overs. Pretorius was also very good after he was got on. Rabada though had a day to forget, had he been at his best, South Africa would have well been chasing 15 less. T
Anrich Nortje to Lahiru Kumara, ! RUN OUT! Lahiru Kumara sacrifices his wicket on the last ball! Back of a length, outside off. Lahiru Kumara misses his slog but the batters look to sneak in a bye! Quinton de Kock collects the ball cleanly behind the sticks and throws it back to Anrich Nortje. Nortje catches it and whips the bails off at his end. Lahiru Kumara is short of his crease and Sri Lanka are bundled out for 142.
Lahiru Kumara comes out to bat now.
Anrich Nortje to Dushmantha Chameera, ! BOWLED! YOU MISS, I HIT, says Anrich Nortje! Good-length ball, around off. Dushmantha Chameera looks to heave it across the line but he misses and the ball crashes onto his off stump.
Anrich Nortje to Maheesh Theekshana, Length ball, around off. Maheesh Theekshana drills it to long on for a run.
Anrich Nortje to Maheesh Theekshana, ! STREAKY! Crucial runs for Sri Lanka these! Short of a length, on middle. Maheesh Theekshana backs away and looks to push it through covers. He gets a thick outside edge and the ball goes past keeper and into the fence.
Anrich Nortje to Maheesh Theekshana, Excellent running! Good-length ball, on middle. Maheesh Theekshana tucks it to the leg side and collects a couple of runs.
Anrich Nortje is back into the attack to bowl the final over of the innings.
Anrich Nortje to Dushmantha Chameera, Leg bye! Back of a length, angling in from middle. Dushmantha Chameera misses his heave and gets hit high on his thigh pad. The batters sneak in a leg bye!
Maheesh Theekshana walks out at number 10.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dushmantha Chameera, Slower ball, on a length, outside off. Dushmantha Chameera shuffles across and heaves it to wide of the deep mid-wicket fielder. Two to end the over!
Dwaine Pretorius to Dushmantha Chameera, Fuller in length, outside off. Dushmantha Chameera moves across and heaves it to deep mid-wicket for a couple.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, ! TAKEN! Brilliant innings from Pathum Nissanka comes to an end! Dwaine Pretorius picks up his third wicket! Another slower ball, into the pitch, around off. Pathum Nissanka looks to pull but he only manages a top edge and the ball goes straight to Anrich Nortje at deep mid-wicket who takes a good catch.
Who will walk out now? Dushmantha Chameera it is.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, Slower ball, on a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka looks to reverse sweep but he fails to get any bat on it.
Dwaine Pretorius to Chamika Karunaratne, ! CAUGHT! Another one bites the dust! Slower ball, into the pitch, around middle. Chamika Karunaratne skips down and looks to heave it away but he gets a top edge and the ball goes to the right of the long on fielder. Rassie van der Dussen at long on, runs there and takes a good catch.
Dwaine Pretorius to Chamika Karunaratne, Full ball, outside off. Chamika Karunaratne drives it to wide of deep cover and takes a couple.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! WOW! Shot of the day, probably! Rabada bowls it into the deck, just outside off. Pathum Nissanka stands tall and carves it past the extra cover fielder. The ball races away to the fence.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! Lovely shot! Short of a length, around off. Pathum Nissanka stays back and smacks it through square leg for a boundary.
Kagiso Rabada to Chamika Karunaratne, Length ball, outside off. Chamika Karunaratne pushes it to cover and collects a run.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, In the air, but safe! Slower ball, on a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka skips down and looks to drive but he gets a top edge behind point. A single taken!
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! BANG! Pathum Nissanka is in the mood! Short of a length, outside off. Nissanka hangs back and sends it sailing way over deep mid-wicket for a biggie!
Kagiso Rabada (2-0-15-0) is back on. He replaces Anrich Nortje.
Kagiso Rabada to Chamika Karunaratne, Rabada hits the deck hard, around off. Chamika Karunaratne pushes it past point for a run.
Dwaine Pretorius to Chamika Karunaratne, Good-length ball, outside off. Chamika Karunaratne taps it to backward point and takes a single.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, Back of a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka punches it to sweeper cover for a run.
Chamika Karunaratne walks out at number 8.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, ! TAKEN! Dwaine Pretorius' plan comes off and that is a really good catch from Kagiso Rabada at sweeper cover. Pretorius sticks to his plan, bowls it full and outside off. Dasun Shanaka slices it uppishly. Kagiso Rabada at sweeper cover runs in and takes a good low catch.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, ! Edgy, but Dasun Shanaka will take that! Back of a length, outside off. Shanaka looks to cut but gets a thick outside edge. The ball flies over the keeper and goes into the fence.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, Leg bye! Length ball, outside off. Pathum Nissanka tries to be cheeky and looks to scoop it over the keeper but he misses and gets hit on the pads. The ball rolls away for a leg bye.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, ! This is clever from Pathum Nissanka! Full ball, way outside off. Nissanka moves across and whips it past the square leg fielder for a boundary.
Anrich Nortje to Dasun Shanaka, ! A welcome boundary for Dasun Shanaka and Sri Lanka! The Lankans bring up their 100 as well! Good-length ball, around off. Shanaka hoicks it over extra cover and collects a boundary.
Anrich Nortje to Dasun Shanaka, Back of a length, around off. Dasun Shanaka taps it to backward point.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Short of a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka stands tall and looks to slog but he gets the toe end. The ball goes towards David Miller at long on for a single.
Anrich Nortje to Dasun Shanaka, Good-length ball, around off. Dasun Shanaka taps it to wide of cover and takes an easy single.
Anrich Nortje (2-0-13-1)Â is back on now.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Length ball, angling in from middle. Pathum Nissanka flicks it to deep square leg for a run.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Swing and a miss! Back of a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka looks to heave it away but he misses.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, FIFTY for Nissanka. What an innings, a lot has been happening on the other end. But Nissanka made sure he keeps one end intact. A hard-fought knock by him. Just, when it mattered the most.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Pretorius continues to bowl wide and outside off. Shanaka pushes it through covers for a single.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Full and wide outside off. Shanaka get low and looks to slash it away but misses it again. He is frustrated with himsef. 4 dots on the trot.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Three dots in a row! A length ball, outside off. The ball moves away. Shanaka comes out and across hoping to connect but does not do it this time as well.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Fuller and wide outside off. The ball stays low. Shanaka looks to go after it but misses.Â
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, A full-length ball, outside off. Shanaka comes across and looks to chase it but misses.
Dwaine Pretorius comes to bowl now.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Dasun Shanaka, Flighted, full and on off. Shanaka flicks it towards mid-wicket and gets a single. Shamsi ends his spell of 4 with 3 wickets and he gave away only 17 runs.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Dasun Shanaka, Full and outside off. Shanaka guides it towards short third man.
Sri Lanka's skipper, Dasun Shanaka walks out to bat.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Wanindu Hasaranga, ! CAUGHT! Wanindu Hasaranga has shown his intent of attack but he should've started off slowly. But that's not how he plays. Hasaranga looks to clear the fence at long on and pays the price. Floated, full, around middle and leg. Hasaranga goes back and lifts it towards long on. Aiden Markram there comes forward and takes a good diving catch. Half of the Sri Lanka side has been sent back.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Flatter and outside off. Nissanka stays on the back foot and pulls it towards mid-wicket for a single.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and down leg. Nissanka sweeps it towards short fine leg, but straight to the man.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Wanindu Hasaranga, Floated, full and around off. Hasaranga comes down the track and lifts it towards long off. They take one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Tossed up, around off. Nissanka taps it to point. A good over for Sri Lanka, 10 runs off it. These two batters need to make sure they take things deep.
Keshav Maharaj to Wanindu Hasaranga, Darted on the pads. Hasaranga stays back and nudges it to square leg for a run.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Flighted, full and on off. Nissanka eases it down to long off for a single.
Keshav Maharaj to Wanindu Hasaranga, Another single now! Flatter, around middle and leg. Hasaranga clips it to mid-wicket for a run.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Floated, around middle. Nissanka flicks it to mid-wicket for a single.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, ! A much-needed maximum for Lanka. Pathum Nissanka gets into the attack now. Short and on off. Nissanka hangs back and smokes it over the mid-wicket fence for a maximum.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and on off. Nissanka pushes it towards long on for another single. Shamsi with another great over, 7 runs and a wicket off it.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Wanindu Hasaranga, Tossed up, on middle. Hasaranga comes forward and lofts it through mid-wicket. They take one.
Wanindu Hasaranga walks out to bat.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Avishka Fernando, ! CAUGHT AND BOWLED! Tabraiz Shamsi does it again and he is off for his celebration, just like Imran Tahir. Yet another low scoring innnigs by Fernando, he has found it difficult to score in the Super 12s. Full and on off. Fernando ends up chipping it back to Shamsi. He grabs it safely yet again. Sri Lanka are in a spot of bother.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Floated, on middle. Nissanka flicks it towards mid-wicket for a single.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, This one just falls short of Shamsi. Floated, full and on off. Nissanka comes forward and ends up playing it back to the bowler. The ball though stays very low and lands short of Shamsi.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, ! Up and over! Tossed up, full and outside off. Nissanka was equal to the task. He opens up and lifts it over extra cover for a boundary.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, A single to end! On off, this is pushed down to long off for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Avishka Fernando, Angled into the pads, Fernando now flicks it through mid-wicket for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Angled into the pads, Nissanka works it towards short fine leg for one.
Review time! South Africa opt for yet another review as Pathum Nissanka has been hit on his pads. The Ball Tracker shows that the ball would have clipped the leg stump. It is umpire's call and the on-field decision stays.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Nissanka steps out but the length is shortened. He looks to drive but gets an inside edge onto the pads.
Keshav Maharaj to Avishka Fernando, On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, NOT ! Umpire's call as it is clipping the leg pole! Nissanka comes down the track and Maharaj bowls it around middle. He tries to flick but misses to get hit on the pads. An appeal but turned down. It is reviewed. Replays show that it does not straighten enough. South Africa do not lose the review though. Also, it is a leg bye as the batters crossed.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and on the pads. Nissanka flicks it towards fine leg. The batters pick three runs. A good over by Tabraiz Shamsi, 6 runs and a wicket off it.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, NOT ! Loopy ball, full and down leg. Nissanka looks to flick it away but misses. Quinton de Kock was quick to move to his left and flick the bails. He appeals for stumping, the umpire takes it upstairs to confirm. The UltraEdge shows the bat is absent. The replays show the foot was grounded as the bails were coming off. In the end it is just a wide.
DRINKS! Sri Lanka have lost two wickets in quick succession just at the stroke of Drinks and South Africa would be happier of the two sides at the halfway mark! The Lankan batters will need to take the innings deep and then tee off at the fag end. Avishka Fernando walks out to bat now.
A stumping decision has been sent upstairs! Looks like a close call this but Pathum Nissanka might just have some part of his foot inside the crease!
Tabraiz Shamsi to Avishka Fernando, On off, Fernando pushes it to cover for a single.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Avishka Fernando, Full and on off. Fernando pushes it out.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, ! CAUGHT AND BOWLED! Tabraiz Shamsi does what he does best. Bhanuka Rajapaksa was sent up the order but that clearly did not work as they planned it out. Sri Lanka have lost their third wicket. Tossed up, full and on off. Rajapaksa looks to flick it to the leg side, but he plays it early. The ball takes the leading edge and chips to the right of Shamsi. He moves to that side, extends his arms and collects it safely. South Africa are all over the La
Keshav Maharaj to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Flatter and on middle, defended. 14 from the over but a big wicket from it.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, ! Charith Asalanka is just short! Charith Asalanka has gifted his wicket to South Africa here just as the momentum seemed to be shifting. Welcome breakthrough for the bowling side. On middle, Asalanka works it through mid-wicket. There is two in it but Charith Asalanka hesitates for a second as he takes off for the second run and that costs him. Rabada gets to the ball and fires in a brilliant through, right next to the stumps. De Kock collects it and
Tabraiz Shamsi to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Floated, full and on off. Bhanuka Rajapaksa looks to sweep it away but does not connect well. He gets an inside edge onto the pads. Quinton de Kock and Tabraiz Shamsi appeal but the umpire is unmoved.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and on off. Nissanka pushes it towards mid on and crosses for a single.
Bhanuka Rajapaksa is the new man in.
A run out decision has been sent upstairs! Charith Asalanka looks to be in trouble as Quinton de Kock, behind the sticks seems very confident!
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Floated up on off, this is pushed down to long off for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, ! Pathum Nissanka now joins the act! The shorter side of the fence and hence, it goes over. He too gets the slog sweep out. He nails it over the mid-wicket fence, just over the leaping fielder there.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Now takes one as he slaps it through covers.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, ! Over the fence! It was the longer part but Asalanka hit it well enough by just! He skips down and Maharaj bowls it short. Asalanka pulls it towards deep mid-wicket. Rabada there leaps brilliantly but it goes just over him. Welcome biggie.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Another loud appeal but this one has probably pitched just outside leg! Nissanka misses the sweep and gets hit on the pads. A really good first over then by Shamsi.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Charith Asalanka, Asalanka comes down the track and makes it into a full toss, this is hit down to long on for one.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Charith Asalanka, On middle, Asalanka pushes it back to the bowler.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Leg bye! Once again sees Nissanka come down the track and bowls it shorter. PN looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and rolls on the leg side. Leg bye.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Slightly shorter and on the pads, Nissanka looks to pull but misses. He was probably coming down the wicket but then tried to hold back. That was a delivery which could be hit.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Flatter and on off, this is pushed back to the bowler.
Tabraiz Shamsi is into the attack now.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Brilliant fielding which means just the 5 from the over. On middle, this is pushed to the left of the bowler who gets there, dives and saves a run for his side.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Out comes the reverse sweep, it goes more off the underedge towards point for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and outside off, this is slapped through covers for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Nissanka comes down the track and works it through mid-wicket for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Angled into the pads, Nissanka works it towards mid-wicket for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, On middle, Pathum Nissanka flicks it through square leg and gets to the other end.
Keshav Maharaj comes into the attack.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, A leg bye to end the 6th! A really good one for Lanka and they are in a decent position after the Powerplay. They have not scored freely but just the one down. The last ball is full and on the pads, Nissanka looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and rolls towards short fine leg. Nortje puts in a late appeal but turned down. A leg bye.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, A quick run! Shorter and on middle, Asalanka initially looks to duck but then guides it to short third man for one.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, ! This is a shot and a half! Stunning! Fuller and on off, Asalanka keeps his shape and just times it uppishly but wide of mid off. Back-to-back boundaries.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, WIDE! Down the leg side this time, Asalanka looks to flick but misses.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Good length and around off, Pathum Nissanka opens the face of the bat and guides it to point. A good over for Lanka. Rabada has been expensive so far. 17 from his 2.
Kagiso Rabada to Charith Asalanka, Back of a length and on off, Asalanka guides it down to third man and gets to the other end.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Now follows the biggie with a single as this is worked through square leg. Good batting.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! Flicked away! A welcome boundary for Lanka! Not a risky shot. This is coming in with the angle, Nissanka shuffles across and heaves it through mid-wicket for a boundary.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, ! Up and over! Not a very pretty shot but effective! Length and on off, Asalanka heaves it, it does not go off the middle but he hits it well enough to get it over square leg for a boundary.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, A slower one outside off, Nissanka drags it through square leg for one more. He was a touch early in the shot.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and on the body, Asalanka looks to pull but misses. It hits the pad and rolls on the leg side. Another leg bye.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Another one, tailing back and on middle, Nissanka plays it late and to point.
Change of ends for Kagiso Rabada.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Good length and on off, Nissanka blocks.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, On middle, Asalanka works it to mid-wicket. A successful over from Nortje.
Charith Asalanka walks out to bat.
Anrich Nortje to Kusal Perera, ! TIMBER! Perera walks back for yet another low score and it is Nortje who provides the breakthrough! Slightly shorter in length and on middle, Perera looks to pull but this one does not bounce a lot. He misses and the middle pole is uprooted. This is a really good start for South Africa.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, On off, Nissanka guides it down to third man and gets to the other end.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Yet another delivery which could have been put away but not put away! Short and wide outside off, Nissanka cuts but to point.
Anrich Nortje to Kusal Perera, Perera misses out! Short and on the pads, Perera looks to pull but it hits the pad and rolls towards short fine leg. A leg bye taken.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Too full but the gap is not found! Fuller and on off, Pathum Nissanka drives, the man at mid off moves to his left and keeps it down to one.
Anrich Nortje comes to bowl.
Review time! Temba Bavuma has opted for a review as Kusal Perera has been struck on his pad. The Ball Tracker clearly shows that the impact was well outside off and Kusal Perera survives.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Another single to end! Markram continues to keep it tidy! On middle, this is eased down to long on.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Slightly shorter, Pathum Nissanka pulls it hard but to mid-wicket.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, On middle, this is worked towards mid-wicket for one.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, NOT ! Impact outside off! It did seem that way and that is how it remained. South Africa lose a review. This is fired outside off. Perera looks to sweep but misses. He gets hit on the pads. A huge appeal but turned down. Bavuma reviews but replays show it is not a good one.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, Angled into the pads, Perera works it to square leg.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Gives it flight and bowls it outside off, PN drags it towards long on for one.
Kagiso Rabada to Kusal Perera, ! Nice and fine! A boundary to end! Second in the over and Perera's first! Another gift for the batter. It is on the pads, Perera works it fine and this one races away to the fence.
Kagiso Rabada to Kusal Perera, Width on offer this time, it is outside off, Perera goes after it but he gets it off the underedge to the cover fielder.
Kagiso Rabada to Kusal Perera, Ouch! That might have hurt! On the pads, it is worked to short fine leg. The fielder has a shy but he throws it towards the batter by mistake. Perera though jumps early and then gets hit on the body.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Better! Length and on off, Nissanka guides it down to third man for one.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! Fortunate boundary! Sri Lanka won't mind how they come as long as they do. First one of the game. Poor ball by Rabada but that is a poor shot too. Short and wide outside off, Pathum Nissanka has his feet glued to the crease as he tries to cut, he gets an inside edge, it goes past the off pole and down to the fine leg fence.
Who will bowl from the other end? Kagiso Rabada it is!
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Good length and on middle, Pathum Nissanka plays it to mid on.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, A quiet first over then! Just the 5 from it! On middle, Pathum Nissanka flicks it through wide mid on for one.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, On middle, Nissanka works it to mid-wicket.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, Yet another one! Angled into the pads, Perera nudges it to mid-wicket and gets to the other end.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Flatter again and on the stumps, it is once again pushed down to long on for one more.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, Confusion but safe! Also, excellent from de Kock! On middle, this is worked to square leg. Rabada runs to his right but as he tries to pick the ball up, slips, he lets it through. Pathum Nissanka wants another and sets off but is sent back. The throw to de Kock is a wide one. He collects and without looking, flicks it back onto the stumps but the batter is in.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Sri Lanka and Pathum Nissanka are underway! Flatter and on off, this one skids through, it is pushed down to long on for one.
The players of both the teams are out for their respective national anthems! First, it will be the anthem of Sri Lanka followed by the anthem of South Africa! We are done with all the formalities and are set for the action! The players of South Africa are in a huddle before spreading out on the field! Kusal Perera and Pathum Nissanka are the opening batters for Sri Lanka. Before we begin, the players from both teams take knee to show their fight against racism! Aiden Markram to start with t
Aiden Markram is up for a chat. He says that they had few challenging days but they want to give their best in this competition and they don't want to bother about the things that are going outside. Tells that he is enjoying his batting and he is still learning on playing in such conditions. Says that Sri Lanka are a good side and they are certainly up for the challenge. Tells that the pitch does not look that bad and they have watched the previous game that was played on the similar track.
Dasun Shanaka, the skipper of Sri Lanka, says that they have played two games at Sharjah and they know the conditions really well. Tells that their batters as well as bowlers have played here before and they exactly know what to do. Informs that they are unchanged.
The skipper of South Africa, Temba Bavuma says they have one change, de Kock comes in for Klaasen. States the team is feeling a lot better than they were a cople of days ago, de Kock is in a much-better mindset and they are looking forward to this game. Adds the first 5 overs will be very key for them and that is why they want to bowl first, they want to adapt to the conditions. Ends by saying he assumes the wicket to be slow and low.
South Africa (Playing XI) - Reeza Hendricks, Quinton de Kock (WK) (In for Heinrich Klaasen), Temba Bavuma (C), Aiden Markram, David Miller, Rassie van der Dussen, Dwaine Pretorius, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Tabraiz Shamsi.
TOSS â Both the skippers stride out to the middle for an all-important toss. The coin goes up and lands in favour of South Africa. They have opted to BOWL first.
Things are heating up in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021 as the matches are coming thick and fast. Hello and a very warm welcome to another intriguing contest where South Africa is set to take on Sri Lanka. Both sides have managed to grab 2 points so far and they have all to play for as the race for semi-final is well and truly on.
PITCH REPORT - Daren Sammy is down for the pitch report. He says that the conditions are very hot and as far as the dimensions of the ground are concerned, the straight boundaries are a bit on the bigger side as compared to the square boundaries. Mbangwa is also there, he says the bowlers should hit the deck at the back of a length. Adds, the bowlers should go wide in the death overs, a yorker can be a risky deal.
South Africa, led by Temba Bavuma, have looked a really good unit so far and they would be high on confidence coming into this fixture after having won against the defending champions West Indies in their previous game. The Proteas have a world-class bowling attack, not only on paper but they have proved it with their performance on the field as well. They certainly missed the all-round services of Quinton de Kock in their previous match but there is a possibility that he will be back for this
Sri Lanka, the most consistent side of this mega event in terms of overall wins, started well by winning their opening encounter against Bangladesh but suffered a defeat in their next game. They have batted reasonably well so far but it is their bowling which has been a tad inconsistent. Charith Asalanka, with the bat has been a revelation for them and they would hope that he carries his sublime form into this game. Sri Lankans do have some quality spinners but they haven't been able to make a s
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13
Diabytes
South Africa
146/6(19.5 Overs)
The chase is set to begin.
... The Run Chase ...
Sri Lanka though have given them a score to fight! They have variety in their bowling and not to forget a similar score was defended on the 29th of October. Can it be done again? South Africa though have a strong batting line-up and will fancy themselves to chase this down. Stay tuned for the second essay.
Tabraiz Shamsi is in for a chat. He says, hitting the areas is the key and that paid off. States the run out was important and it came at the right time for them. Adds he is happy with the accolades but it is a team effort and he is just one of them contributing.
Lanka were probably guilty of being way too aggressive. They were just going after everything. Except for Nissanka and Asalanka (who was run out) the rest just gifted their wickets away, playing rash shots when not needed. Had it not been Nissanka who played brilliantly, they would have fallen well short of a competitive score. He needed someone else to give him able support, there were a few who got off to starts but none managed to convert it into something significant. They could have well go
Have to say South Africa will be pleased with their effort with the ball on a wicket which does not seem that bad. The key for them was wickets at regular intervals. Everytime the momentum seemed like slipping, South Africa managed to strike. It was Nortje who started things off. Maharaj and Shamsi were really good in the middle overs. Pretorius was also very good after he was got on. Rabada though had a day to forget, had he been at his best, South Africa would have well been chasing 15 less. T
Anrich Nortje to Lahiru Kumara, ! RUN OUT! Lahiru Kumara sacrifices his wicket on the last ball! Back of a length, outside off. Lahiru Kumara misses his slog but the batters look to sneak in a bye! Quinton de Kock collects the ball cleanly behind the sticks and throws it back to Anrich Nortje. Nortje catches it and whips the bails off at his end. Lahiru Kumara is short of his crease and Sri Lanka are bundled out for 142.
Lahiru Kumara comes out to bat now.
Anrich Nortje to Dushmantha Chameera, ! BOWLED! YOU MISS, I HIT, says Anrich Nortje! Good-length ball, around off. Dushmantha Chameera looks to heave it across the line but he misses and the ball crashes onto his off stump.
Anrich Nortje to Maheesh Theekshana, Length ball, around off. Maheesh Theekshana drills it to long on for a run.
Anrich Nortje to Maheesh Theekshana, ! STREAKY! Crucial runs for Sri Lanka these! Short of a length, on middle. Maheesh Theekshana backs away and looks to push it through covers. He gets a thick outside edge and the ball goes past keeper and into the fence.
Anrich Nortje to Maheesh Theekshana, Excellent running! Good-length ball, on middle. Maheesh Theekshana tucks it to the leg side and collects a couple of runs.
Anrich Nortje is back into the attack to bowl the final over of the innings.
Anrich Nortje to Dushmantha Chameera, Leg bye! Back of a length, angling in from middle. Dushmantha Chameera misses his heave and gets hit high on his thigh pad. The batters sneak in a leg bye!
Maheesh Theekshana walks out at number 10.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dushmantha Chameera, Slower ball, on a length, outside off. Dushmantha Chameera shuffles across and heaves it to wide of the deep mid-wicket fielder. Two to end the over!
Dwaine Pretorius to Dushmantha Chameera, Fuller in length, outside off. Dushmantha Chameera moves across and heaves it to deep mid-wicket for a couple.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, ! TAKEN! Brilliant innings from Pathum Nissanka comes to an end! Dwaine Pretorius picks up his third wicket! Another slower ball, into the pitch, around off. Pathum Nissanka looks to pull but he only manages a top edge and the ball goes straight to Anrich Nortje at deep mid-wicket who takes a good catch.
Who will walk out now? Dushmantha Chameera it is.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, Slower ball, on a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka looks to reverse sweep but he fails to get any bat on it.
Dwaine Pretorius to Chamika Karunaratne, ! CAUGHT! Another one bites the dust! Slower ball, into the pitch, around middle. Chamika Karunaratne skips down and looks to heave it away but he gets a top edge and the ball goes to the right of the long on fielder. Rassie van der Dussen at long on, runs there and takes a good catch.
Dwaine Pretorius to Chamika Karunaratne, Full ball, outside off. Chamika Karunaratne drives it to wide of deep cover and takes a couple.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! WOW! Shot of the day, probably! Rabada bowls it into the deck, just outside off. Pathum Nissanka stands tall and carves it past the extra cover fielder. The ball races away to the fence.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! Lovely shot! Short of a length, around off. Pathum Nissanka stays back and smacks it through square leg for a boundary.
Kagiso Rabada to Chamika Karunaratne, Length ball, outside off. Chamika Karunaratne pushes it to cover and collects a run.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, In the air, but safe! Slower ball, on a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka skips down and looks to drive but he gets a top edge behind point. A single taken!
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! BANG! Pathum Nissanka is in the mood! Short of a length, outside off. Nissanka hangs back and sends it sailing way over deep mid-wicket for a biggie!
Kagiso Rabada (2-0-15-0) is back on. He replaces Anrich Nortje.
Kagiso Rabada to Chamika Karunaratne, Rabada hits the deck hard, around off. Chamika Karunaratne pushes it past point for a run.
Dwaine Pretorius to Chamika Karunaratne, Good-length ball, outside off. Chamika Karunaratne taps it to backward point and takes a single.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, Back of a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka punches it to sweeper cover for a run.
Chamika Karunaratne walks out at number 8.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, ! TAKEN! Dwaine Pretorius' plan comes off and that is a really good catch from Kagiso Rabada at sweeper cover. Pretorius sticks to his plan, bowls it full and outside off. Dasun Shanaka slices it uppishly. Kagiso Rabada at sweeper cover runs in and takes a good low catch.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, ! Edgy, but Dasun Shanaka will take that! Back of a length, outside off. Shanaka looks to cut but gets a thick outside edge. The ball flies over the keeper and goes into the fence.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, Leg bye! Length ball, outside off. Pathum Nissanka tries to be cheeky and looks to scoop it over the keeper but he misses and gets hit on the pads. The ball rolls away for a leg bye.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, ! This is clever from Pathum Nissanka! Full ball, way outside off. Nissanka moves across and whips it past the square leg fielder for a boundary.
Anrich Nortje to Dasun Shanaka, ! A welcome boundary for Dasun Shanaka and Sri Lanka! The Lankans bring up their 100 as well! Good-length ball, around off. Shanaka hoicks it over extra cover and collects a boundary.
Anrich Nortje to Dasun Shanaka, Back of a length, around off. Dasun Shanaka taps it to backward point.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Short of a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka stands tall and looks to slog but he gets the toe end. The ball goes towards David Miller at long on for a single.
Anrich Nortje to Dasun Shanaka, Good-length ball, around off. Dasun Shanaka taps it to wide of cover and takes an easy single.
Anrich Nortje (2-0-13-1)Â is back on now.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Length ball, angling in from middle. Pathum Nissanka flicks it to deep square leg for a run.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Swing and a miss! Back of a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka looks to heave it away but he misses.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, FIFTY for Nissanka. What an innings, a lot has been happening on the other end. But Nissanka made sure he keeps one end intact. A hard-fought knock by him. Just, when it mattered the most.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Pretorius continues to bowl wide and outside off. Shanaka pushes it through covers for a single.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Full and wide outside off. Shanaka get low and looks to slash it away but misses it again. He is frustrated with himsef. 4 dots on the trot.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Three dots in a row! A length ball, outside off. The ball moves away. Shanaka comes out and across hoping to connect but does not do it this time as well.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Fuller and wide outside off. The ball stays low. Shanaka looks to go after it but misses.Â
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, A full-length ball, outside off. Shanaka comes across and looks to chase it but misses.
Dwaine Pretorius comes to bowl now.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Dasun Shanaka, Flighted, full and on off. Shanaka flicks it towards mid-wicket and gets a single. Shamsi ends his spell of 4 with 3 wickets and he gave away only 17 runs.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Dasun Shanaka, Full and outside off. Shanaka guides it towards short third man.
Sri Lanka's skipper, Dasun Shanaka walks out to bat.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Wanindu Hasaranga, ! CAUGHT! Wanindu Hasaranga has shown his intent of attack but he should've started off slowly. But that's not how he plays. Hasaranga looks to clear the fence at long on and pays the price. Floated, full, around middle and leg. Hasaranga goes back and lifts it towards long on. Aiden Markram there comes forward and takes a good diving catch. Half of the Sri Lanka side has been sent back.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Flatter and outside off. Nissanka stays on the back foot and pulls it towards mid-wicket for a single.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and down leg. Nissanka sweeps it towards short fine leg, but straight to the man.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Wanindu Hasaranga, Floated, full and around off. Hasaranga comes down the track and lifts it towards long off. They take one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Tossed up, around off. Nissanka taps it to point. A good over for Sri Lanka, 10 runs off it. These two batters need to make sure they take things deep.
Keshav Maharaj to Wanindu Hasaranga, Darted on the pads. Hasaranga stays back and nudges it to square leg for a run.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Flighted, full and on off. Nissanka eases it down to long off for a single.
Keshav Maharaj to Wanindu Hasaranga, Another single now! Flatter, around middle and leg. Hasaranga clips it to mid-wicket for a run.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Floated, around middle. Nissanka flicks it to mid-wicket for a single.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, ! A much-needed maximum for Lanka. Pathum Nissanka gets into the attack now. Short and on off. Nissanka hangs back and smokes it over the mid-wicket fence for a maximum.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and on off. Nissanka pushes it towards long on for another single. Shamsi with another great over, 7 runs and a wicket off it.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Wanindu Hasaranga, Tossed up, on middle. Hasaranga comes forward and lofts it through mid-wicket. They take one.
Wanindu Hasaranga walks out to bat.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Avishka Fernando, ! CAUGHT AND BOWLED! Tabraiz Shamsi does it again and he is off for his celebration, just like Imran Tahir. Yet another low scoring innnigs by Fernando, he has found it difficult to score in the Super 12s. Full and on off. Fernando ends up chipping it back to Shamsi. He grabs it safely yet again. Sri Lanka are in a spot of bother.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Floated, on middle. Nissanka flicks it towards mid-wicket for a single.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, This one just falls short of Shamsi. Floated, full and on off. Nissanka comes forward and ends up playing it back to the bowler. The ball though stays very low and lands short of Shamsi.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, ! Up and over! Tossed up, full and outside off. Nissanka was equal to the task. He opens up and lifts it over extra cover for a boundary.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, A single to end! On off, this is pushed down to long off for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Avishka Fernando, Angled into the pads, Fernando now flicks it through mid-wicket for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Angled into the pads, Nissanka works it towards short fine leg for one.
Review time! South Africa opt for yet another review as Pathum Nissanka has been hit on his pads. The Ball Tracker shows that the ball would have clipped the leg stump. It is umpire's call and the on-field decision stays.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Nissanka steps out but the length is shortened. He looks to drive but gets an inside edge onto the pads.
Keshav Maharaj to Avishka Fernando, On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, NOT ! Umpire's call as it is clipping the leg pole! Nissanka comes down the track and Maharaj bowls it around middle. He tries to flick but misses to get hit on the pads. An appeal but turned down. It is reviewed. Replays show that it does not straighten enough. South Africa do not lose the review though. Also, it is a leg bye as the batters crossed.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and on the pads. Nissanka flicks it towards fine leg. The batters pick three runs. A good over by Tabraiz Shamsi, 6 runs and a wicket off it.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, NOT ! Loopy ball, full and down leg. Nissanka looks to flick it away but misses. Quinton de Kock was quick to move to his left and flick the bails. He appeals for stumping, the umpire takes it upstairs to confirm. The UltraEdge shows the bat is absent. The replays show the foot was grounded as the bails were coming off. In the end it is just a wide.
DRINKS! Sri Lanka have lost two wickets in quick succession just at the stroke of Drinks and South Africa would be happier of the two sides at the halfway mark! The Lankan batters will need to take the innings deep and then tee off at the fag end. Avishka Fernando walks out to bat now.
A stumping decision has been sent upstairs! Looks like a close call this but Pathum Nissanka might just have some part of his foot inside the crease!
Tabraiz Shamsi to Avishka Fernando, On off, Fernando pushes it to cover for a single.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Avishka Fernando, Full and on off. Fernando pushes it out.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, ! CAUGHT AND BOWLED! Tabraiz Shamsi does what he does best. Bhanuka Rajapaksa was sent up the order but that clearly did not work as they planned it out. Sri Lanka have lost their third wicket. Tossed up, full and on off. Rajapaksa looks to flick it to the leg side, but he plays it early. The ball takes the leading edge and chips to the right of Shamsi. He moves to that side, extends his arms and collects it safely. South Africa are all over the La
Keshav Maharaj to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Flatter and on middle, defended. 14 from the over but a big wicket from it.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, ! Charith Asalanka is just short! Charith Asalanka has gifted his wicket to South Africa here just as the momentum seemed to be shifting. Welcome breakthrough for the bowling side. On middle, Asalanka works it through mid-wicket. There is two in it but Charith Asalanka hesitates for a second as he takes off for the second run and that costs him. Rabada gets to the ball and fires in a brilliant through, right next to the stumps. De Kock collects it and
Tabraiz Shamsi to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Floated, full and on off. Bhanuka Rajapaksa looks to sweep it away but does not connect well. He gets an inside edge onto the pads. Quinton de Kock and Tabraiz Shamsi appeal but the umpire is unmoved.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and on off. Nissanka pushes it towards mid on and crosses for a single.
Bhanuka Rajapaksa is the new man in.
A run out decision has been sent upstairs! Charith Asalanka looks to be in trouble as Quinton de Kock, behind the sticks seems very confident!
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Floated up on off, this is pushed down to long off for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, ! Pathum Nissanka now joins the act! The shorter side of the fence and hence, it goes over. He too gets the slog sweep out. He nails it over the mid-wicket fence, just over the leaping fielder there.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Now takes one as he slaps it through covers.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, ! Over the fence! It was the longer part but Asalanka hit it well enough by just! He skips down and Maharaj bowls it short. Asalanka pulls it towards deep mid-wicket. Rabada there leaps brilliantly but it goes just over him. Welcome biggie.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Another loud appeal but this one has probably pitched just outside leg! Nissanka misses the sweep and gets hit on the pads. A really good first over then by Shamsi.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Charith Asalanka, Asalanka comes down the track and makes it into a full toss, this is hit down to long on for one.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Charith Asalanka, On middle, Asalanka pushes it back to the bowler.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Leg bye! Once again sees Nissanka come down the track and bowls it shorter. PN looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and rolls on the leg side. Leg bye.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Slightly shorter and on the pads, Nissanka looks to pull but misses. He was probably coming down the wicket but then tried to hold back. That was a delivery which could be hit.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Flatter and on off, this is pushed back to the bowler.
Tabraiz Shamsi is into the attack now.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Brilliant fielding which means just the 5 from the over. On middle, this is pushed to the left of the bowler who gets there, dives and saves a run for his side.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Out comes the reverse sweep, it goes more off the underedge towards point for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and outside off, this is slapped through covers for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Nissanka comes down the track and works it through mid-wicket for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Angled into the pads, Nissanka works it towards mid-wicket for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, On middle, Pathum Nissanka flicks it through square leg and gets to the other end.
Keshav Maharaj comes into the attack.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, A leg bye to end the 6th! A really good one for Lanka and they are in a decent position after the Powerplay. They have not scored freely but just the one down. The last ball is full and on the pads, Nissanka looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and rolls towards short fine leg. Nortje puts in a late appeal but turned down. A leg bye.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, A quick run! Shorter and on middle, Asalanka initially looks to duck but then guides it to short third man for one.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, ! This is a shot and a half! Stunning! Fuller and on off, Asalanka keeps his shape and just times it uppishly but wide of mid off. Back-to-back boundaries.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, WIDE! Down the leg side this time, Asalanka looks to flick but misses.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Good length and around off, Pathum Nissanka opens the face of the bat and guides it to point. A good over for Lanka. Rabada has been expensive so far. 17 from his 2.
Kagiso Rabada to Charith Asalanka, Back of a length and on off, Asalanka guides it down to third man and gets to the other end.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Now follows the biggie with a single as this is worked through square leg. Good batting.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! Flicked away! A welcome boundary for Lanka! Not a risky shot. This is coming in with the angle, Nissanka shuffles across and heaves it through mid-wicket for a boundary.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, ! Up and over! Not a very pretty shot but effective! Length and on off, Asalanka heaves it, it does not go off the middle but he hits it well enough to get it over square leg for a boundary.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, A slower one outside off, Nissanka drags it through square leg for one more. He was a touch early in the shot.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and on the body, Asalanka looks to pull but misses. It hits the pad and rolls on the leg side. Another leg bye.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Another one, tailing back and on middle, Nissanka plays it late and to point.
Change of ends for Kagiso Rabada.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Good length and on off, Nissanka blocks.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, On middle, Asalanka works it to mid-wicket. A successful over from Nortje.
Charith Asalanka walks out to bat.
Anrich Nortje to Kusal Perera, ! TIMBER! Perera walks back for yet another low score and it is Nortje who provides the breakthrough! Slightly shorter in length and on middle, Perera looks to pull but this one does not bounce a lot. He misses and the middle pole is uprooted. This is a really good start for South Africa.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, On off, Nissanka guides it down to third man and gets to the other end.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Yet another delivery which could have been put away but not put away! Short and wide outside off, Nissanka cuts but to point.
Anrich Nortje to Kusal Perera, Perera misses out! Short and on the pads, Perera looks to pull but it hits the pad and rolls towards short fine leg. A leg bye taken.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Too full but the gap is not found! Fuller and on off, Pathum Nissanka drives, the man at mid off moves to his left and keeps it down to one.
Anrich Nortje comes to bowl.
Review time! Temba Bavuma has opted for a review as Kusal Perera has been struck on his pad. The Ball Tracker clearly shows that the impact was well outside off and Kusal Perera survives.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Another single to end! Markram continues to keep it tidy! On middle, this is eased down to long on.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Slightly shorter, Pathum Nissanka pulls it hard but to mid-wicket.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, On middle, this is worked towards mid-wicket for one.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, NOT ! Impact outside off! It did seem that way and that is how it remained. South Africa lose a review. This is fired outside off. Perera looks to sweep but misses. He gets hit on the pads. A huge appeal but turned down. Bavuma reviews but replays show it is not a good one.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, Angled into the pads, Perera works it to square leg.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Gives it flight and bowls it outside off, PN drags it towards long on for one.
Kagiso Rabada to Kusal Perera, ! Nice and fine! A boundary to end! Second in the over and Perera's first! Another gift for the batter. It is on the pads, Perera works it fine and this one races away to the fence.
Kagiso Rabada to Kusal Perera, Width on offer this time, it is outside off, Perera goes after it but he gets it off the underedge to the cover fielder.
Kagiso Rabada to Kusal Perera, Ouch! That might have hurt! On the pads, it is worked to short fine leg. The fielder has a shy but he throws it towards the batter by mistake. Perera though jumps early and then gets hit on the body.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Better! Length and on off, Nissanka guides it down to third man for one.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! Fortunate boundary! Sri Lanka won't mind how they come as long as they do. First one of the game. Poor ball by Rabada but that is a poor shot too. Short and wide outside off, Pathum Nissanka has his feet glued to the crease as he tries to cut, he gets an inside edge, it goes past the off pole and down to the fine leg fence.
Who will bowl from the other end? Kagiso Rabada it is!
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Good length and on middle, Pathum Nissanka plays it to mid on.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, A quiet first over then! Just the 5 from it! On middle, Pathum Nissanka flicks it through wide mid on for one.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, On middle, Nissanka works it to mid-wicket.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, Yet another one! Angled into the pads, Perera nudges it to mid-wicket and gets to the other end.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Flatter again and on the stumps, it is once again pushed down to long on for one more.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, Confusion but safe! Also, excellent from de Kock! On middle, this is worked to square leg. Rabada runs to his right but as he tries to pick the ball up, slips, he lets it through. Pathum Nissanka wants another and sets off but is sent back. The throw to de Kock is a wide one. He collects and without looking, flicks it back onto the stumps but the batter is in.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Sri Lanka and Pathum Nissanka are underway! Flatter and on off, this one skids through, it is pushed down to long on for one.
The players of both the teams are out for their respective national anthems! First, it will be the anthem of Sri Lanka followed by the anthem of South Africa! We are done with all the formalities and are set for the action! The players of South Africa are in a huddle before spreading out on the field! Kusal Perera and Pathum Nissanka are the opening batters for Sri Lanka. Before we begin, the players from both teams take knee to show their fight against racism! Aiden Markram to start with t
Aiden Markram is up for a chat. He says that they had few challenging days but they want to give their best in this competition and they don't want to bother about the things that are going outside. Tells that he is enjoying his batting and he is still learning on playing in such conditions. Says that Sri Lanka are a good side and they are certainly up for the challenge. Tells that the pitch does not look that bad and they have watched the previous game that was played on the similar track.
Dasun Shanaka, the skipper of Sri Lanka, says that they have played two games at Sharjah and they know the conditions really well. Tells that their batters as well as bowlers have played here before and they exactly know what to do. Informs that they are unchanged.
The skipper of South Africa, Temba Bavuma says they have one change, de Kock comes in for Klaasen. States the team is feeling a lot better than they were a cople of days ago, de Kock is in a much-better mindset and they are looking forward to this game. Adds the first 5 overs will be very key for them and that is why they want to bowl first, they want to adapt to the conditions. Ends by saying he assumes the wicket to be slow and low.
Sri Lanka (Unchanged playing XI) - Kusal Perera (WK), Pathum Nissanka, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Avishka Fernando, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (C), Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamika Karunaratne, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Lahiru Kumara.
South Africa (Playing XI) - Reeza Hendricks, Quinton de Kock (WK) (In for Heinrich Klaasen), Temba Bavuma (C), Aiden Markram, David Miller, Rassie van der Dussen, Dwaine Pretorius, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Tabraiz Shamsi.
TOSS â Both the skippers stride out to the middle for an all-important toss. The coin goes up and lands in favour of South Africa. They have opted to BOWL first.
Things are heating up in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021 as the matches are coming thick and fast. Hello and a very warm welcome to another intriguing contest where South Africa is set to take on Sri Lanka. Both sides have managed to grab 2 points so far and they have all to play for as the race for semi-final is well and truly on.
PITCH REPORT - Daren Sammy is down for the pitch report. He says that the conditions are very hot and as far as the dimensions of the ground are concerned, the straight boundaries are a bit on the bigger side as compared to the square boundaries. Mbangwa is also there, he says the bowlers should hit the deck at the back of a length. Adds, the bowlers should go wide in the death overs, a yorker can be a risky deal.
South Africa, led by Temba Bavuma, have looked a really good unit so far and they would be high on confidence coming into this fixture after having won against the defending champions West Indies in their previous game. The Proteas have a world-class bowling attack, not only on paper but they have proved it with their performance on the field as well. They certainly missed the all-round services of Quinton de Kock in their previous match but there is a possibility that he will be back for this
Sri Lanka, the most consistent side of this mega event in terms of overall wins, started well by winning their opening encounter against Bangladesh but suffered a defeat in their next game. They have batted reasonably well so far but it is their bowling which has been a tad inconsistent. Charith Asalanka, with the bat has been a revelation for them and they would hope that he carries his sublime form into this game. Sri Lankans do have some quality spinners but they haven't been able to make a s
... Match Day ...
The chase is set to begin.
... The Run Chase ...
Sri Lanka though have given them a score to fight! They have variety in their bowling and not to forget a similar score was defended on the 29th of October. Can it be done again? South Africa though have a strong batting line-up and will fancy themselves to chase this down. Stay tuned for the second essay.
Tabraiz Shamsi is in for a chat. He says, hitting the areas is the key and that paid off. States the run out was important and it came at the right time for them. Adds he is happy with the accolades but it is a team effort and he is just one of them contributing.
Lanka were probably guilty of being way too aggressive. They were just going after everything. Except for Nissanka and Asalanka (who was run out) the rest just gifted their wickets away, playing rash shots when not needed. Had it not been Nissanka who played brilliantly, they would have fallen well short of a competitive score. He needed someone else to give him able support, there were a few who got off to starts but none managed to convert it into something significant. They could have well go
Have to say South Africa will be pleased with their effort with the ball on a wicket which does not seem that bad. The key for them was wickets at regular intervals. Everytime the momentum seemed like slipping, South Africa managed to strike. It was Nortje who started things off. Maharaj and Shamsi were really good in the middle overs. Pretorius was also very good after he was got on. Rabada though had a day to forget, had he been at his best, South Africa would have well been chasing 15 less. T
Anrich Nortje to Lahiru Kumara, ! RUN OUT! Lahiru Kumara sacrifices his wicket on the last ball! Back of a length, outside off. Lahiru Kumara misses his slog but the batters look to sneak in a bye! Quinton de Kock collects the ball cleanly behind the sticks and throws it back to Anrich Nortje. Nortje catches it and whips the bails off at his end. Lahiru Kumara is short of his crease and Sri Lanka are bundled out for 142.
Lahiru Kumara comes out to bat now.
Anrich Nortje to Dushmantha Chameera, ! BOWLED! YOU MISS, I HIT, says Anrich Nortje! Good-length ball, around off. Dushmantha Chameera looks to heave it across the line but he misses and the ball crashes onto his off stump.
Anrich Nortje to Maheesh Theekshana, Length ball, around off. Maheesh Theekshana drills it to long on for a run.
Anrich Nortje to Maheesh Theekshana, ! STREAKY! Crucial runs for Sri Lanka these! Short of a length, on middle. Maheesh Theekshana backs away and looks to push it through covers. He gets a thick outside edge and the ball goes past keeper and into the fence.
Anrich Nortje to Maheesh Theekshana, Excellent running! Good-length ball, on middle. Maheesh Theekshana tucks it to the leg side and collects a couple of runs.
Anrich Nortje is back into the attack to bowl the final over of the innings.
Anrich Nortje to Dushmantha Chameera, Leg bye! Back of a length, angling in from middle. Dushmantha Chameera misses his heave and gets hit high on his thigh pad. The batters sneak in a leg bye!
Maheesh Theekshana walks out at number 10.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dushmantha Chameera, Slower ball, on a length, outside off. Dushmantha Chameera shuffles across and heaves it to wide of the deep mid-wicket fielder. Two to end the over!
Dwaine Pretorius to Dushmantha Chameera, Fuller in length, outside off. Dushmantha Chameera moves across and heaves it to deep mid-wicket for a couple.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, ! TAKEN! Brilliant innings from Pathum Nissanka comes to an end! Dwaine Pretorius picks up his third wicket! Another slower ball, into the pitch, around off. Pathum Nissanka looks to pull but he only manages a top edge and the ball goes straight to Anrich Nortje at deep mid-wicket who takes a good catch.
Who will walk out now? Dushmantha Chameera it is.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, Slower ball, on a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka looks to reverse sweep but he fails to get any bat on it.
Dwaine Pretorius to Chamika Karunaratne, ! CAUGHT! Another one bites the dust! Slower ball, into the pitch, around middle. Chamika Karunaratne skips down and looks to heave it away but he gets a top edge and the ball goes to the right of the long on fielder. Rassie van der Dussen at long on, runs there and takes a good catch.
Dwaine Pretorius to Chamika Karunaratne, Full ball, outside off. Chamika Karunaratne drives it to wide of deep cover and takes a couple.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! WOW! Shot of the day, probably! Rabada bowls it into the deck, just outside off. Pathum Nissanka stands tall and carves it past the extra cover fielder. The ball races away to the fence.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! Lovely shot! Short of a length, around off. Pathum Nissanka stays back and smacks it through square leg for a boundary.
Kagiso Rabada to Chamika Karunaratne, Length ball, outside off. Chamika Karunaratne pushes it to cover and collects a run.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, In the air, but safe! Slower ball, on a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka skips down and looks to drive but he gets a top edge behind point. A single taken!
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! BANG! Pathum Nissanka is in the mood! Short of a length, outside off. Nissanka hangs back and sends it sailing way over deep mid-wicket for a biggie!
Kagiso Rabada (2-0-15-0) is back on. He replaces Anrich Nortje.
Kagiso Rabada to Chamika Karunaratne, Rabada hits the deck hard, around off. Chamika Karunaratne pushes it past point for a run.
Dwaine Pretorius to Chamika Karunaratne, Good-length ball, outside off. Chamika Karunaratne taps it to backward point and takes a single.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, Back of a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka punches it to sweeper cover for a run.
Chamika Karunaratne walks out at number 8.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, ! TAKEN! Dwaine Pretorius' plan comes off and that is a really good catch from Kagiso Rabada at sweeper cover. Pretorius sticks to his plan, bowls it full and outside off. Dasun Shanaka slices it uppishly. Kagiso Rabada at sweeper cover runs in and takes a good low catch.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, ! Edgy, but Dasun Shanaka will take that! Back of a length, outside off. Shanaka looks to cut but gets a thick outside edge. The ball flies over the keeper and goes into the fence.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, Leg bye! Length ball, outside off. Pathum Nissanka tries to be cheeky and looks to scoop it over the keeper but he misses and gets hit on the pads. The ball rolls away for a leg bye.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, ! This is clever from Pathum Nissanka! Full ball, way outside off. Nissanka moves across and whips it past the square leg fielder for a boundary.
Anrich Nortje to Dasun Shanaka, ! A welcome boundary for Dasun Shanaka and Sri Lanka! The Lankans bring up their 100 as well! Good-length ball, around off. Shanaka hoicks it over extra cover and collects a boundary.
Anrich Nortje to Dasun Shanaka, Back of a length, around off. Dasun Shanaka taps it to backward point.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Short of a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka stands tall and looks to slog but he gets the toe end. The ball goes towards David Miller at long on for a single.
Anrich Nortje to Dasun Shanaka, Good-length ball, around off. Dasun Shanaka taps it to wide of cover and takes an easy single.
Anrich Nortje (2-0-13-1)Â is back on now.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Length ball, angling in from middle. Pathum Nissanka flicks it to deep square leg for a run.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Swing and a miss! Back of a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka looks to heave it away but he misses.
Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, FIFTY for Nissanka. What an innings, a lot has been happening on the other end. But Nissanka made sure he keeps one end intact. A hard-fought knock by him. Just, when it mattered the most.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Pretorius continues to bowl wide and outside off. Shanaka pushes it through covers for a single.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Full and wide outside off. Shanaka get low and looks to slash it away but misses it again. He is frustrated with himsef. 4 dots on the trot.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Three dots in a row! A length ball, outside off. The ball moves away. Shanaka comes out and across hoping to connect but does not do it this time as well.
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Fuller and wide outside off. The ball stays low. Shanaka looks to go after it but misses.Â
Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, A full-length ball, outside off. Shanaka comes across and looks to chase it but misses.
Dwaine Pretorius comes to bowl now.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Dasun Shanaka, Flighted, full and on off. Shanaka flicks it towards mid-wicket and gets a single. Shamsi ends his spell of 4 with 3 wickets and he gave away only 17 runs.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Dasun Shanaka, Full and outside off. Shanaka guides it towards short third man.
Sri Lanka's skipper, Dasun Shanaka walks out to bat.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Wanindu Hasaranga, ! CAUGHT! Wanindu Hasaranga has shown his intent of attack but he should've started off slowly. But that's not how he plays. Hasaranga looks to clear the fence at long on and pays the price. Floated, full, around middle and leg. Hasaranga goes back and lifts it towards long on. Aiden Markram there comes forward and takes a good diving catch. Half of the Sri Lanka side has been sent back.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Flatter and outside off. Nissanka stays on the back foot and pulls it towards mid-wicket for a single.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and down leg. Nissanka sweeps it towards short fine leg, but straight to the man.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Wanindu Hasaranga, Floated, full and around off. Hasaranga comes down the track and lifts it towards long off. They take one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Tossed up, around off. Nissanka taps it to point. A good over for Sri Lanka, 10 runs off it. These two batters need to make sure they take things deep.
Keshav Maharaj to Wanindu Hasaranga, Darted on the pads. Hasaranga stays back and nudges it to square leg for a run.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Flighted, full and on off. Nissanka eases it down to long off for a single.
Keshav Maharaj to Wanindu Hasaranga, Another single now! Flatter, around middle and leg. Hasaranga clips it to mid-wicket for a run.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Floated, around middle. Nissanka flicks it to mid-wicket for a single.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, ! A much-needed maximum for Lanka. Pathum Nissanka gets into the attack now. Short and on off. Nissanka hangs back and smokes it over the mid-wicket fence for a maximum.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and on off. Nissanka pushes it towards long on for another single. Shamsi with another great over, 7 runs and a wicket off it.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Wanindu Hasaranga, Tossed up, on middle. Hasaranga comes forward and lofts it through mid-wicket. They take one.
Wanindu Hasaranga walks out to bat.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Avishka Fernando, ! CAUGHT AND BOWLED! Tabraiz Shamsi does it again and he is off for his celebration, just like Imran Tahir. Yet another low scoring innnigs by Fernando, he has found it difficult to score in the Super 12s. Full and on off. Fernando ends up chipping it back to Shamsi. He grabs it safely yet again. Sri Lanka are in a spot of bother.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Floated, on middle. Nissanka flicks it towards mid-wicket for a single.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, This one just falls short of Shamsi. Floated, full and on off. Nissanka comes forward and ends up playing it back to the bowler. The ball though stays very low and lands short of Shamsi.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, ! Up and over! Tossed up, full and outside off. Nissanka was equal to the task. He opens up and lifts it over extra cover for a boundary.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, A single to end! On off, this is pushed down to long off for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Avishka Fernando, Angled into the pads, Fernando now flicks it through mid-wicket for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Angled into the pads, Nissanka works it towards short fine leg for one.
Review time! South Africa opt for yet another review as Pathum Nissanka has been hit on his pads. The Ball Tracker shows that the ball would have clipped the leg stump. It is umpire's call and the on-field decision stays.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Nissanka steps out but the length is shortened. He looks to drive but gets an inside edge onto the pads.
Keshav Maharaj to Avishka Fernando, On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, NOT ! Umpire's call as it is clipping the leg pole! Nissanka comes down the track and Maharaj bowls it around middle. He tries to flick but misses to get hit on the pads. An appeal but turned down. It is reviewed. Replays show that it does not straighten enough. South Africa do not lose the review though. Also, it is a leg bye as the batters crossed.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and on the pads. Nissanka flicks it towards fine leg. The batters pick three runs. A good over by Tabraiz Shamsi, 6 runs and a wicket off it.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, NOT ! Loopy ball, full and down leg. Nissanka looks to flick it away but misses. Quinton de Kock was quick to move to his left and flick the bails. He appeals for stumping, the umpire takes it upstairs to confirm. The UltraEdge shows the bat is absent. The replays show the foot was grounded as the bails were coming off. In the end it is just a wide.
DRINKS! Sri Lanka have lost two wickets in quick succession just at the stroke of Drinks and South Africa would be happier of the two sides at the halfway mark! The Lankan batters will need to take the innings deep and then tee off at the fag end. Avishka Fernando walks out to bat now.
A stumping decision has been sent upstairs! Looks like a close call this but Pathum Nissanka might just have some part of his foot inside the crease!
Tabraiz Shamsi to Avishka Fernando, On off, Fernando pushes it to cover for a single.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Avishka Fernando, Full and on off. Fernando pushes it out.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, ! CAUGHT AND BOWLED! Tabraiz Shamsi does what he does best. Bhanuka Rajapaksa was sent up the order but that clearly did not work as they planned it out. Sri Lanka have lost their third wicket. Tossed up, full and on off. Rajapaksa looks to flick it to the leg side, but he plays it early. The ball takes the leading edge and chips to the right of Shamsi. He moves to that side, extends his arms and collects it safely. South Africa are all over the La
Keshav Maharaj to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Flatter and on middle, defended. 14 from the over but a big wicket from it.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, ! Charith Asalanka is just short! Charith Asalanka has gifted his wicket to South Africa here just as the momentum seemed to be shifting. Welcome breakthrough for the bowling side. On middle, Asalanka works it through mid-wicket. There is two in it but Charith Asalanka hesitates for a second as he takes off for the second run and that costs him. Rabada gets to the ball and fires in a brilliant through, right next to the stumps. De Kock collects it and
Tabraiz Shamsi to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Floated, full and on off. Bhanuka Rajapaksa looks to sweep it away but does not connect well. He gets an inside edge onto the pads. Quinton de Kock and Tabraiz Shamsi appeal but the umpire is unmoved.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and on off. Nissanka pushes it towards mid on and crosses for a single.
Bhanuka Rajapaksa is the new man in.
A run out decision has been sent upstairs! Charith Asalanka looks to be in trouble as Quinton de Kock, behind the sticks seems very confident!
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Floated up on off, this is pushed down to long off for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, ! Pathum Nissanka now joins the act! The shorter side of the fence and hence, it goes over. He too gets the slog sweep out. He nails it over the mid-wicket fence, just over the leaping fielder there.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Now takes one as he slaps it through covers.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, ! Over the fence! It was the longer part but Asalanka hit it well enough by just! He skips down and Maharaj bowls it short. Asalanka pulls it towards deep mid-wicket. Rabada there leaps brilliantly but it goes just over him. Welcome biggie.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Another loud appeal but this one has probably pitched just outside leg! Nissanka misses the sweep and gets hit on the pads. A really good first over then by Shamsi.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Charith Asalanka, Asalanka comes down the track and makes it into a full toss, this is hit down to long on for one.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Charith Asalanka, On middle, Asalanka pushes it back to the bowler.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Leg bye! Once again sees Nissanka come down the track and bowls it shorter. PN looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and rolls on the leg side. Leg bye.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Slightly shorter and on the pads, Nissanka looks to pull but misses. He was probably coming down the wicket but then tried to hold back. That was a delivery which could be hit.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Flatter and on off, this is pushed back to the bowler.
Tabraiz Shamsi is into the attack now.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Brilliant fielding which means just the 5 from the over. On middle, this is pushed to the left of the bowler who gets there, dives and saves a run for his side.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Out comes the reverse sweep, it goes more off the underedge towards point for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and outside off, this is slapped through covers for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Nissanka comes down the track and works it through mid-wicket for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Angled into the pads, Nissanka works it towards mid-wicket for one.
Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, On middle, Pathum Nissanka flicks it through square leg and gets to the other end.
Keshav Maharaj comes into the attack.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, A leg bye to end the 6th! A really good one for Lanka and they are in a decent position after the Powerplay. They have not scored freely but just the one down. The last ball is full and on the pads, Nissanka looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and rolls towards short fine leg. Nortje puts in a late appeal but turned down. A leg bye.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, A quick run! Shorter and on middle, Asalanka initially looks to duck but then guides it to short third man for one.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, ! This is a shot and a half! Stunning! Fuller and on off, Asalanka keeps his shape and just times it uppishly but wide of mid off. Back-to-back boundaries.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, WIDE! Down the leg side this time, Asalanka looks to flick but misses.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Good length and around off, Pathum Nissanka opens the face of the bat and guides it to point. A good over for Lanka. Rabada has been expensive so far. 17 from his 2.
Kagiso Rabada to Charith Asalanka, Back of a length and on off, Asalanka guides it down to third man and gets to the other end.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Now follows the biggie with a single as this is worked through square leg. Good batting.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! Flicked away! A welcome boundary for Lanka! Not a risky shot. This is coming in with the angle, Nissanka shuffles across and heaves it through mid-wicket for a boundary.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, ! Up and over! Not a very pretty shot but effective! Length and on off, Asalanka heaves it, it does not go off the middle but he hits it well enough to get it over square leg for a boundary.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, A slower one outside off, Nissanka drags it through square leg for one more. He was a touch early in the shot.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and on the body, Asalanka looks to pull but misses. It hits the pad and rolls on the leg side. Another leg bye.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Another one, tailing back and on middle, Nissanka plays it late and to point.
Change of ends for Kagiso Rabada.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Good length and on off, Nissanka blocks.
Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, On middle, Asalanka works it to mid-wicket. A successful over from Nortje.
Charith Asalanka walks out to bat.
Anrich Nortje to Kusal Perera, ! TIMBER! Perera walks back for yet another low score and it is Nortje who provides the breakthrough! Slightly shorter in length and on middle, Perera looks to pull but this one does not bounce a lot. He misses and the middle pole is uprooted. This is a really good start for South Africa.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, On off, Nissanka guides it down to third man and gets to the other end.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Yet another delivery which could have been put away but not put away! Short and wide outside off, Nissanka cuts but to point.
Anrich Nortje to Kusal Perera, Perera misses out! Short and on the pads, Perera looks to pull but it hits the pad and rolls towards short fine leg. A leg bye taken.
Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Too full but the gap is not found! Fuller and on off, Pathum Nissanka drives, the man at mid off moves to his left and keeps it down to one.
Anrich Nortje comes to bowl.
Review time! Temba Bavuma has opted for a review as Kusal Perera has been struck on his pad. The Ball Tracker clearly shows that the impact was well outside off and Kusal Perera survives.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Another single to end! Markram continues to keep it tidy! On middle, this is eased down to long on.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Slightly shorter, Pathum Nissanka pulls it hard but to mid-wicket.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, On middle, this is worked towards mid-wicket for one.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, NOT ! Impact outside off! It did seem that way and that is how it remained. South Africa lose a review. This is fired outside off. Perera looks to sweep but misses. He gets hit on the pads. A huge appeal but turned down. Bavuma reviews but replays show it is not a good one.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, Angled into the pads, Perera works it to square leg.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Gives it flight and bowls it outside off, PN drags it towards long on for one.
Kagiso Rabada to Kusal Perera, ! Nice and fine! A boundary to end! Second in the over and Perera's first! Another gift for the batter. It is on the pads, Perera works it fine and this one races away to the fence.
Kagiso Rabada to Kusal Perera, Width on offer this time, it is outside off, Perera goes after it but he gets it off the underedge to the cover fielder.
Kagiso Rabada to Kusal Perera, Ouch! That might have hurt! On the pads, it is worked to short fine leg. The fielder has a shy but he throws it towards the batter by mistake. Perera though jumps early and then gets hit on the body.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Better! Length and on off, Nissanka guides it down to third man for one.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, ! Fortunate boundary! Sri Lanka won't mind how they come as long as they do. First one of the game. Poor ball by Rabada but that is a poor shot too. Short and wide outside off, Pathum Nissanka has his feet glued to the crease as he tries to cut, he gets an inside edge, it goes past the off pole and down to the fine leg fence.
Who will bowl from the other end? Kagiso Rabada it is!
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Good length and on middle, Pathum Nissanka plays it to mid on.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, A quiet first over then! Just the 5 from it! On middle, Pathum Nissanka flicks it through wide mid on for one.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, On middle, Nissanka works it to mid-wicket.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, Yet another one! Angled into the pads, Perera nudges it to mid-wicket and gets to the other end.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Flatter again and on the stumps, it is once again pushed down to long on for one more.
Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, Confusion but safe! Also, excellent from de Kock! On middle, this is worked to square leg. Rabada runs to his right but as he tries to pick the ball up, slips, he lets it through. Pathum Nissanka wants another and sets off but is sent back. The throw to de Kock is a wide one. He collects and without looking, flicks it back onto the stumps but the batter is in.
Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Sri Lanka and Pathum Nissanka are underway! Flatter and on off, this one skids through, it is pushed down to long on for one.
The players of both the teams are out for their respective national anthems! First, it will be the anthem of Sri Lanka followed by the anthem of South Africa! We are done with all the formalities and are set for the action! The players of South Africa are in a huddle before spreading out on the field! Kusal Perera and Pathum Nissanka are the opening batters for Sri Lanka. Before we begin, the players from both teams take knee to show their fight against racism! Aiden Markram to start with t
Aiden Markram is up for a chat. He says that they had few challenging days but they want to give their best in this competition and they don't want to bother about the things that are going outside. Tells that he is enjoying his batting and he is still learning on playing in such conditions. Says that Sri Lanka are a good side and they are certainly up for the challenge. Tells that the pitch does not look that bad and they have watched the previous game that was played on the similar track.
Dasun Shanaka, the skipper of Sri Lanka, says that they have played two games at Sharjah and they know the conditions really well. Tells that their batters as well as bowlers have played here before and they exactly know what to do. Informs that they are unchanged.
The skipper of South Africa, Temba Bavuma says they have one change, de Kock comes in for Klaasen. States the team is feeling a lot better than they were a cople of days ago, de Kock is in a much-better mindset and they are looking forward to this game. Adds the first 5 overs will be very key for them and that is why they want to bowl first, they want to adapt to the conditions. Ends by saying he assumes the wicket to be slow and low.
Sri Lanka (Unchanged playing XI) - Kusal Perera (WK), Pathum Nissanka, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Avishka Fernando, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (C), Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamika Karunaratne, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Lahiru Kumara.
South Africa (Playing XI) - Reeza Hendricks, Quinton de Kock (WK) (In for Heinrich Klaasen), Temba Bavuma (C), Aiden Markram, David Miller, Rassie van der Dussen, Dwaine Pretorius, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Tabraiz Shamsi.
TOSS â Both the skippers stride out to the middle for an all-important toss. The coin goes up and lands in favour of South Africa. They have opted to BOWL first.
Things are heating up in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021 as the matches are coming thick and fast. Hello and a very warm welcome to another intriguing contest where South Africa is set to take on Sri Lanka. Both sides have managed to grab 2 points so far and they have all to play for as the race for semi-final is well and truly on.
PITCH REPORT - Daren Sammy is down for the pitch report. He says that the conditions are very hot and as far as the dimensions of the ground are concerned, the straight boundaries are a bit on the bigger side as compared to the square boundaries. Mbangwa is also there, he says the bowlers should hit the deck at the back of a length. Adds, the bowlers should go wide in the death overs, a yorker can be a risky deal.
South Africa, led by Temba Bavuma, have looked a really good unit so far and they would be high on confidence coming into this fixture after having won against the defending champions West Indies in their previous game. The Proteas have a world-class bowling attack, not only on paper but they have proved it with their performance on the field as well. They certainly missed the all-round services of Quinton de Kock in their previous match but there is a possibility that he will be back for this
Sri Lanka, the most consistent side of this mega event in terms of overall wins, started well by winning their opening encounter against Bangladesh but suffered a defeat in their next game. They have batted reasonably well so far but it is their bowling which has been a tad inconsistent. Charith Asalanka, with the bat has been a revelation for them and they would hope that he carries his sublime form into this game. Sri Lankans do have some quality spinners but they haven't been able to make a s
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