Sri Lanka’s hopes of securing a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final were shattered following a 2-0 Test series loss to South Africa. Despite commendable efforts by Dhananjaya de Silva and Kusal Mendis in the second Test, Sri Lanka succumbed to a 109-run defeat on the final day.
Head coach Sanath Jayasuriya attributed the disappointing performance to the batting unit’s inability to deliver substantial contributions. Highlighting the first innings at Gqeberha as a pivotal moment, Jayasuriya noted that five top-order batsmen collectively scored only 20 runs, with just one player managing to surpass the 50-run mark.
Pathum Nissanka, the top scorer with 89, was praised for his efforts but criticized for missing the opportunity to convert his innings into a match-defining score. Jayasuriya emphasized the importance of centuries in challenging overseas conditions, especially against strong opponents like South Africa.
“Batsmen need to score hundred-plus runs. Scores of 30 and 40 are not sufficient, particularly on these wickets. On a tour like this, at least two players must reach three figures, but we failed to achieve that,” Jayasuriya remarked.
He also pointed out that seasoned players, many of whom have experience in places like England, should understand the critical value of scoring heavily. “There has been a lot of effort from the senior batsmen, but if they reflect individually, they’ll realize their contributions were insufficient,” he added.
Sri Lanka now faces the challenge of regrouping and addressing its batting inconsistencies as they prepare for future international fixtures.
