Rickelton’s maiden ton propels South Africa but Asitha, Kumara ensure opening day is evenly shared

Ryan Rickelton scored first Test century in his eighth Test and became the eighth batter in the team to bring up a hundred in 2024 on an evenly shared day at St George’s Park.

After choosing to bat first in blustery conditions, South Africa teetered on 44 for 3 in the morning session but a 133-run fourth wicket stand between Rickelton and Temba Bavuma who brought up his third successive score over fifty, saw them take control. They were rocked again at 186 for 5 but Rickelton and Kyle Verreynne put on 77 for the sixth-wicket to re-steady them. Sri Lanka came back with two late wickets in the day and will eye dismissing South Africa for under 300 and making the most of what are expected to be good batting conditions on day two.

Sri Lanka, who wanted to bowl first on a surface with a significant grass covering, and got their wish despite losing the toss, will feel fairly pleased with their performance, especially as their seamers asked plenty of questions. Asitha Fernado and Vishwa Fernando found just enough movement upfront whileLahiru Kumara was used effectively in bursts and all three were threatening with the short ball. They were not helped by two chances being put down and a few others falling short but on what is usually a good batting surface on the first day, they should not be too displeased with their efforts.

Brief scores:[Stumps]
South Africa 269 for 7 in 86.3 overs (Ryan Rickelton 101, Temba Bavuma 78, Kyle Verreynne 48*; Lahiru Kumara 3-54, Asitha Fernando 2-67) vs Sri Lanka