A dramatic moment occurred during the second Test between South Africa and Sri Lanka at St George's Oval in Gqeberha when Sri Lankan pacer Lahiru Kumara shattered Kagiso Rabada's bat. The incident took place on Day 2 of the match.
Lahiru Kumara breaks Kagiso Rabada's bat
Kyle Verreynne, who carried his overnight score, was joined by Keshav Maharaj at the crease. However, Maharaj's innings was short-lived as he was dismissed by Vishwa Fernando in the first over of the day. Kyle Verreynne, on the other hand, continued his impressive performance, reaching a well-deserved century. Kagiso Rabada provided valuable support from the other end. Verreynne played a stunning knock of 105* runs off 133 balls, including 12 boundaries and 3 sixes, against Sri Lanka. He also shared a valuable 56-run partnership with Kagiso Rabada, helping South Africa post a strong total of 358 runs in the first innings.
During this partnership, a unique incident occurred. Lahiru Kumara bowled a fast, back-of-a-length delivery at 137 km/h. The ball bounced unexpectedly and struck the upper part of Kagiso Rabada's bat with such force that it broke near the handle.
This unusual incident led to a brief interruption in the game as Rabada had to call for a replacement bat. The incident lightened the mood, with even Sri Lankan all-rounder Angelo Mathews joining in the laughter. Kagiso Rabada continued to contribute to South Africa's total, scoring 23 runs off 40 balls. However, his innings was cut short by Asitha Fernando, who bowled him out on Day 2 of the second Test.
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Asitha Fernando employed a clever tactic, holding the ball in a manner that suggested a short-pitched delivery. However, he deceived Rabada by delivering a full-length ball that angled in towards the batter. Rabada, anticipating a bouncer, was caught off guard and left a gap between his bat and pad, resulting in a clean bowled dismissal. This break in the partnership between Rabada and Kyle Verreynne was crucial for Sri Lanka.
Lahiru Kumara was the standout bowler for Sri Lanka, finishing with impressive figures of 4/79.
Both South Africa and Sri Lanka are desperate for a win in this Test match, as it is crucial for their qualification to the 2023-25 World Test Championship final. South Africa, having already won the first Test by a significant margin, are aiming for a series whitewash.
