In a day of thrilling cricket action, Sri Lanka and South Africa both achieved significant victories on Thursday. Sri Lanka pulled off a remarkable run chase against England in a One Day International (ODI) match, while South Africa leveled their Test series with Australia by winning the second Test match.
Sri Lanka shocked England by chasing down a formidable total of 429-4, achieving their target with a score of 430-8 to win by two wickets. This chase is now the second-highest successful run chase in ODI history. Despite a stellar performance by England’s captain Harry Brook, who scored a record-breaking 202 off 116 balls and became the first England batter to reach a double century in men’s ODI cricket, England faced their second consecutive defeat in the tri-series.
Sri Lanka’s innings was bolstered by a 166-run partnership between Avishka Fernando, who scored 97, and Pavan Rathnayake, who contributed 130 off 106 balls. Captain Dasun Shanaka further accelerated the innings with a rapid 97 from just 50 deliveries. Janith Liyanage played a crucial role in the final moments, remaining unbeaten on 61 from 27 balls, striking a six over long-off to secure the memorable victory with just two balls to spare.
Meanwhile, South Africa clinched victory over Australia by an innings and 31 runs in the second Test match held at St George’s Park in Gqeberha. The win came despite rain delays on the final day, as South Africa managed to dismiss Australia for 295 in their second innings. This result leveled the series at 1-1, following Australia’s win in the opening Test in Durban by 214 runs.
With the series now tied, both South Africa and Australia will head to Cape Town for a decisive third Test. The outcome of this series is crucial, not only for victory but also for gaining valuable points in the World Test Championship standings.