Maharaj strikes as Proteas coast to series victory over Sri Lanka

South Africa wrapped up a convincing 2-0 series victory, coasting to a 109-run win in the second Test against Sri Lanka in Gqeberha on Monday.

Resuming their second innings at 205/5 in the morning session on day five, still needing 143 to win, the fighting tourists were ultimately dismantled for 238.

Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de Silva (50) and Kusal Mendis (46) shared 97 runs for the sixth wicket overnight, but after they were removed, the rest of their line-up fell apart.

Spin bowler Keshav Maharaj ripped through the tail, returning 5/76 to lead the Proteas attack.

All-round team effort

It was a solid all-round effort by the hosts, with Maharaj and seam bowler Dane Paterson each taking seven wickets in the match, while Ryan Rickelton (101) and Kyle Verreynne (105 not out) scoring centuries in the Proteas’ first innings.

Captain Temba Bavuma also played a key role, contributing half-centuries in both innings.

“This Test for a lot of the guys was a proper test,” said Bavuma, who was named Player of the Series (having also scored a century in the first match).

“It’s rare that you get to play all five days, and it’s rare that the game swings both sides, so we must give credit to Sri Lanka for the way they went about their business.

“They asked the right questions and made us work hard for the win, and we’ll take a lot of pride as a group.”