South African bowlers on song

An impressive bowling performance from South Africa, led by Andre Nel, ripped through Sri Lanka A in their tour match.

The hosts were bundled out for 162 compared to South Africa’s 465-4 declared, which Ashewell Prince called to a halt this morning after fifties for himself and AB De Villiers.

Sri Lanka A’s batting line up contained several players in contention for a Test spot, but none of them did themselves any favours. Makhaya Ntini struck first, removing opener and captain Avishka Gunawardene for a brisk 18. Chamara Kapugerdera, who made his Test debut in England, came in at first drop but was soon on his way back, caught by Gibbs off Steyn.

Nel was then introduced to the attack, and took three quick wickets to slice through the middle order. Michael Vandort was the only top order player who knuckled down, but Ntini was able to breach his defences and he was bowled for 29.

All rounder Upul Chandana was the only batsman to make a good score, he scored 51* off 98 balls. There was little resistance from the tail, and they were a batsman short due to Herath’s injured knee. Nicky Boje wrapped up the innings with wickets from successive balls.

In the overs remaining, South Africa advanced to 43-1 with Herschelle Gibbs the wicket to fall.

South Africa 465-5 dec.
Jacques Rudolph 157, Hashim Amla 150
Nuwan Zoysa 1-54

Sri Lanka A 162 all out
Upul Chandana 51*, Michael Vandort 29
Andre Nel 4-39, Makhaya Ntini 2-32, Nicky Boje 2-46

South Africa 43-1
Boeta Dippenaar 22*
Ruchira Perera 1-23