Wisden
Second ODI

Sri Lanka in South Africa, 2011-12

Firdose Moonda

At East London, January 14, 2012. South Africa won by five wickets. Toss: South Africa.

Careful to avoid an implosion of Paarl proportions, Sri Lanka batted ultra-cautiously after losing two early wickets: by the time Tharanga was caught behind with the score at 105, they were already in the 29th over. Chandimal then dug in, surviving blows to the helmet and arm, and numerous run-out chances to steer Sri Lanka to an almost retro 236 with the help of Mathews. In mitigation, batting wasn't easy on a sluggish track - with several edges falling short of the wicketkeeper and slips. Smith struggled, but Amla's 55 from 58 balls gave South Africa breathing space, and Duminy worked the singles; his unbeaten 66 from 87 balls contained one six and no fours.

Man of the Match: J-P. Duminy.

© John Wisden & Co.