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South Africa vs Sri Lanka Live Commentary, Super 12 - Match 25, ICC World Twenty20, 2021, October 30, 2021

SL 142/10 (20)
South Africa beat Sri Lanka by 4 wickets
SA 146/6 (19.5)
Match over
Sri Lanka Inning South Africa Inning
0.0 : ... Match Day ...
Sri Lanka, the most consistent side of this mega event in terms of overall wins, started well by winning their opening encounter against Bangladesh but suffered a defeat in their next game. They have batted reasonably well so far but it is their bowling which has been a tad inconsistent. Charith Asalanka, with the bat has been a revelation for them and they would hope that he carries his sublime form into this game. Sri Lankans do have some quality spinners but they haven't been able to make a s
South Africa, led by Temba Bavuma, have looked a really good unit so far and they would be high on confidence coming into this fixture after having won against the defending champions West Indies in their previous game. The Proteas have a world-class bowling attack, not only on paper but they have proved it with their performance on the field as well. They certainly missed the all-round services of Quinton de Kock in their previous match but there is a possibility that he will be back for this
PITCH REPORT - Daren Sammy is down for the pitch report. He says that the conditions are very hot and as far as the dimensions of the ground are concerned, the straight boundaries are a bit on the bigger side as compared to the square boundaries. Mbangwa is also there, he says the bowlers should hit the deck at the back of a length. Adds, the bowlers should go wide in the death overs, a yorker can be a risky deal.
Things are heating up in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021 as the matches are coming thick and fast. Hello and a very warm welcome to another intriguing contest where South Africa is set to take on Sri Lanka. Both sides have managed to grab 2 points so far and they have all to play for as the race for semi-final is well and truly on.
TOSS – Both the skippers stride out to the middle for an all-important toss. The coin goes up and lands in favour of South Africa. They have opted to BOWL first.
South Africa (Playing XI) - Reeza Hendricks, Quinton de Kock (WK) (In for Heinrich Klaasen), Temba Bavuma (C), Aiden Markram, David Miller, Rassie van der Dussen, Dwaine Pretorius, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Tabraiz Shamsi.
Sri Lanka (Unchanged playing XI) - Kusal Perera (WK), Pathum Nissanka, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Avishka Fernando, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (C), Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamika Karunaratne, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Lahiru Kumara.
The skipper of South Africa, Temba Bavuma says they have one change, de Kock comes in for Klaasen. States the team is feeling a lot better than they were a cople of days ago, de Kock is in a much-better mindset and they are looking forward to this game. Adds the first 5 overs will be very key for them and that is why they want to bowl first, they want to adapt to the conditions. Ends by saying he assumes the wicket to be slow and low.
Dasun Shanaka, the skipper of Sri Lanka, says that they have played two games at Sharjah and they know the conditions really well. Tells that their batters as well as bowlers have played here before and they exactly know what to do. Informs that they are unchanged.
Aiden Markram is up for a chat. He says that they had few challenging days but they want to give their best in this competition and they don't want to bother about the things that are going outside. Tells that he is enjoying his batting and he is still learning on playing in such conditions. Says that Sri Lanka are a good side and they are certainly up for the challenge. Tells that the pitch does not look that bad and they have watched the previous game that was played on the similar track.
The players of both the teams are out for their respective national anthems! First, it will be the anthem of Sri Lanka followed by the anthem of South Africa! We are done with all the formalities and are set for the action! The players of South Africa are in a huddle before spreading out on the field! Kusal Perera and Pathum Nissanka are the opening batters for Sri Lanka. Before we begin, the players from both teams take knee to show their fight against racism! Aiden Markram to start with t
0.1 : Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Sri Lanka and Pathum Nissanka are underway! Flatter and on off, this one skids through, it is pushed down to long on for one.
0.2 : Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, Confusion but safe! Also, excellent from de Kock! On middle, this is worked to square leg. Rabada runs to his right but as he tries to pick the ball up, slips, he lets it through. Pathum Nissanka wants another and sets off but is sent back. The throw to de Kock is a wide one. He collects and without looking, flicks it back onto the stumps but the batter is in.
0.3 : Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Flatter again and on the stumps, it is once again pushed down to long on for one more.
0.4 : Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, Yet another one! Angled into the pads, Perera nudges it to mid-wicket and gets to the other end.
0.5 : Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, On middle, Nissanka works it to mid-wicket.
0.6 : Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, A quiet first over then! Just the 5 from it! On middle, Pathum Nissanka flicks it through wide mid on for one.
1.1 : Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Good length and on middle, Pathum Nissanka plays it to mid on.
0.6 : Who will bowl from the other end? Kagiso Rabada it is!
1.2 : Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, FOUR! Fortunate boundary! Sri Lanka won't mind how they come as long as they do. First one of the game. Poor ball by Rabada but that is a poor shot too. Short and wide outside off, Pathum Nissanka has his feet glued to the crease as he tries to cut, he gets an inside edge, it goes past the off pole and down to the fine leg fence.
1.3 : Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Better! Length and on off, Nissanka guides it down to third man for one.
1.4 : Kagiso Rabada to Kusal Perera, Ouch! That might have hurt! On the pads, it is worked to short fine leg. The fielder has a shy but he throws it towards the batter by mistake. Perera though jumps early and then gets hit on the body.
1.5 : Kagiso Rabada to Kusal Perera, Width on offer this time, it is outside off, Perera goes after it but he gets it off the underedge to the cover fielder.
1.6 : Kagiso Rabada to Kusal Perera, FOUR! Nice and fine! A boundary to end! Second in the over and Perera's first! Another gift for the batter. It is on the pads, Perera works it fine and this one races away to the fence.
2.1 : Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Gives it flight and bowls it outside off, PN drags it towards long on for one.
2.2 : Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, Angled into the pads, Perera works it to square leg.
2.3 : Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, NOT OUT! Impact outside off! It did seem that way and that is how it remained. South Africa lose a review. This is fired outside off. Perera looks to sweep but misses. He gets hit on the pads. A huge appeal but turned down. Bavuma reviews but replays show it is not a good one.
2.4 : Aiden Markram to Kusal Perera, On middle, this is worked towards mid-wicket for one.
2.5 : Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Slightly shorter, Pathum Nissanka pulls it hard but to mid-wicket.
2.6 : Aiden Markram to Pathum Nissanka, Another single to end! Markram continues to keep it tidy! On middle, this is eased down to long on.
2.3 : Review time! Temba Bavuma has opted for a review as Kusal Perera has been struck on his pad. The Ball Tracker clearly shows that the impact was well outside off and Kusal Perera survives.
2.6 : Anrich Nortje comes to bowl.
3.1 : Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Too full but the gap is not found! Fuller and on off, Pathum Nissanka drives, the man at mid off moves to his left and keeps it down to one.
3.2 : Anrich Nortje to Kusal Perera, Perera misses out! Short and on the pads, Perera looks to pull but it hits the pad and rolls towards short fine leg. A leg bye taken.
3.3 : Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Yet another delivery which could have been put away but not put away! Short and wide outside off, Nissanka cuts but to point.
3.4 : Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, On off, Nissanka guides it down to third man and gets to the other end.
3.5 : Anrich Nortje to Kusal Perera, OUT! TIMBER! Perera walks back for yet another low score and it is Nortje who provides the breakthrough! Slightly shorter in length and on middle, Perera looks to pull but this one does not bounce a lot. He misses and the middle pole is uprooted. This is a really good start for South Africa.
Charith Asalanka walks out to bat.
3.6 : Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, On middle, Asalanka works it to mid-wicket. A successful over from Nortje.
4.1 : Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Good length and on off, Nissanka blocks.
0.0 : Change of ends for Kagiso Rabada.
4.2 : Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Another one, tailing back and on middle, Nissanka plays it late and to point.
5.1 : Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and on the body, Asalanka looks to pull but misses. It hits the pad and rolls on the leg side. Another leg bye.
5.2 : Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, A slower one outside off, Nissanka drags it through square leg for one more. He was a touch early in the shot.
5.3 : Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, FOUR! Up and over! Not a very pretty shot but effective! Length and on off, Asalanka heaves it, it does not go off the middle but he hits it well enough to get it over square leg for a boundary.
Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, FOUR! Flicked away! A welcome boundary for Lanka! Not a risky shot. This is coming in with the angle, Nissanka shuffles across and heaves it through mid-wicket for a boundary.
4.4 : Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Now follows the biggie with a single as this is worked through square leg. Good batting.
4.5 : Kagiso Rabada to Charith Asalanka, Back of a length and on off, Asalanka guides it down to third man and gets to the other end.
4.6 : Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, Good length and around off, Pathum Nissanka opens the face of the bat and guides it to point. A good over for Lanka. Rabada has been expensive so far. 17 from his 2.
5.5 : Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, WIDE! Down the leg side this time, Asalanka looks to flick but misses.
5.4 : Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, FOUR! This is a shot and a half! Stunning! Fuller and on off, Asalanka keeps his shape and just times it uppishly but wide of mid off. Back-to-back boundaries.
5.5 : Anrich Nortje to Charith Asalanka, A quick run! Shorter and on middle, Asalanka initially looks to duck but then guides it to short third man for one.
5.6 : Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, A leg bye to end the 6th! A really good one for Lanka and they are in a decent position after the Powerplay. They have not scored freely but just the one down. The last ball is full and on the pads, Nissanka looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and rolls towards short fine leg. Nortje puts in a late appeal but turned down. A leg bye.
Keshav Maharaj comes into the attack.
6.5 : Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, On middle, Pathum Nissanka flicks it through square leg and gets to the other end.
6.1 : Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Angled into the pads, Nissanka works it towards mid-wicket for one.
6.3 : Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Nissanka comes down the track and works it through mid-wicket for one.
6.4 : Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and outside off, this is slapped through covers for one.
6.2 : Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Out comes the reverse sweep, it goes more off the underedge towards point for one.
6.6 : Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Brilliant fielding which means just the 5 from the over. On middle, this is pushed to the left of the bowler who gets there, dives and saves a run for his side.
Tabraiz Shamsi is into the attack now.
7.1 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Flatter and on off, this is pushed back to the bowler.
7.2 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Slightly shorter and on the pads, Nissanka looks to pull but misses. He was probably coming down the wicket but then tried to hold back. That was a delivery which could be hit.
7.3 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Leg bye! Once again sees Nissanka come down the track and bowls it shorter. PN looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and rolls on the leg side. Leg bye.
7.4 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Charith Asalanka, On middle, Asalanka pushes it back to the bowler.
7.5 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Charith Asalanka, Asalanka comes down the track and makes it into a full toss, this is hit down to long on for one.
7.6 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Another loud appeal but this one has probably pitched just outside leg! Nissanka misses the sweep and gets hit on the pads. A really good first over then by Shamsi.
8.1 : Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, SIX! Over the fence! It was the longer part but Asalanka hit it well enough by just! He skips down and Maharaj bowls it short. Asalanka pulls it towards deep mid-wicket. Rabada there leaps brilliantly but it goes just over him. Welcome biggie.
8.2 : Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, Now takes one as he slaps it through covers.
8.3 : Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, SIX! Pathum Nissanka now joins the act! The shorter side of the fence and hence, it goes over. He too gets the slog sweep out. He nails it over the mid-wicket fence, just over the leaping fielder there.
8.4 : Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Floated up on off, this is pushed down to long off for one.
8.5 : A run out decision has been sent upstairs! Charith Asalanka looks to be in trouble as Quinton de Kock, behind the sticks seems very confident!
Bhanuka Rajapaksa is the new man in.
9.1 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and on off. Nissanka pushes it towards mid on and crosses for a single.
9.2 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Floated, full and on off. Bhanuka Rajapaksa looks to sweep it away but does not connect well. He gets an inside edge onto the pads. Quinton de Kock and Tabraiz Shamsi appeal but the umpire is unmoved.
8.5 : Keshav Maharaj to Charith Asalanka, OUT! Charith Asalanka is just short! Charith Asalanka has gifted his wicket to South Africa here just as the momentum seemed to be shifting. Welcome breakthrough for the bowling side. On middle, Asalanka works it through mid-wicket. There is two in it but Charith Asalanka hesitates for a second as he takes off for the second run and that costs him. Rabada gets to the ball and fires in a brilliant through, right next to the stumps. De Kock collects it and
8.6 : Keshav Maharaj to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Flatter and on middle, defended. 14 from the over but a big wicket from it.
9.3 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, OUT! CAUGHT AND BOWLED! Tabraiz Shamsi does what he does best. Bhanuka Rajapaksa was sent up the order but that clearly did not work as they planned it out. Sri Lanka have lost their third wicket. Tossed up, full and on off. Rajapaksa looks to flick it to the leg side, but he plays it early. The ball takes the leading edge and chips to the right of Shamsi. He moves to that side, extends his arms and collects it safely. South Africa are all over the La
9.4 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Avishka Fernando, Full and on off. Fernando pushes it out.
9.5 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Avishka Fernando, On off, Fernando pushes it to cover for a single.
9.6 : A stumping decision has been sent upstairs! Looks like a close call this but Pathum Nissanka might just have some part of his foot inside the crease!
9.3 : DRINKS! Sri Lanka have lost two wickets in quick succession just at the stroke of Drinks and South Africa would be happier of the two sides at the halfway mark! The Lankan batters will need to take the innings deep and then tee off at the fag end. Avishka Fernando walks out to bat now.
9.6 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, NOT OUT! Loopy ball, full and down leg. Nissanka looks to flick it away but misses. Quinton de Kock was quick to move to his left and flick the bails. He appeals for stumping, the umpire takes it upstairs to confirm. The UltraEdge shows the bat is absent. The replays show the foot was grounded as the bails were coming off. In the end it is just a wide.
Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and on the pads. Nissanka flicks it towards fine leg. The batters pick three runs. A good over by Tabraiz Shamsi, 6 runs and a wicket off it.
10.1 : Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, NOT OUT! Umpire's call as it is clipping the leg pole! Nissanka comes down the track and Maharaj bowls it around middle. He tries to flick but misses to get hit on the pads. An appeal but turned down. It is reviewed. Replays show that it does not straighten enough. South Africa do not lose the review though. Also, it is a leg bye as the batters crossed.
10.2 : Keshav Maharaj to Avishka Fernando, On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
10.3 : Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Nissanka steps out but the length is shortened. He looks to drive but gets an inside edge onto the pads.
0.0 : Review time! South Africa opt for yet another review as Pathum Nissanka has been hit on his pads. The Ball Tracker shows that the ball would have clipped the leg stump. It is umpire's call and the on-field decision stays.
10.4 : Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Angled into the pads, Nissanka works it towards short fine leg for one.
10.5 : Keshav Maharaj to Avishka Fernando, Angled into the pads, Fernando now flicks it through mid-wicket for one.
10.6 : Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, A single to end! On off, this is pushed down to long off for one.
11.1 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, FOUR! Up and over! Tossed up, full and outside off. Nissanka was equal to the task. He opens up and lifts it over extra cover for a boundary.
11.2 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, This one just falls short of Shamsi. Floated, full and on off. Nissanka comes forward and ends up playing it back to the bowler. The ball though stays very low and lands short of Shamsi.
11.3 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Floated, on middle. Nissanka flicks it towards mid-wicket for a single.
11.4 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Avishka Fernando, OUT! CAUGHT AND BOWLED! Tabraiz Shamsi does it again and he is off for his celebration, just like Imran Tahir. Yet another low scoring innnigs by Fernando, he has found it difficult to score in the Super 12s. Full and on off. Fernando ends up chipping it back to Shamsi. He grabs it safely yet again. Sri Lanka are in a spot of bother.
Wanindu Hasaranga walks out to bat.
11.5 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Wanindu Hasaranga, Tossed up, on middle. Hasaranga comes forward and lofts it through mid-wicket. They take one.
11.6 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and on off. Nissanka pushes it towards long on for another single. Shamsi with another great over, 7 runs and a wicket off it.
12.1 : Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, SIX! A much-needed maximum for Lanka. Pathum Nissanka gets into the attack now. Short and on off. Nissanka hangs back and smokes it over the mid-wicket fence for a maximum.
12.2 : Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Floated, around middle. Nissanka flicks it to mid-wicket for a single.
12.3 : Keshav Maharaj to Wanindu Hasaranga, Another single now! Flatter, around middle and leg. Hasaranga clips it to mid-wicket for a run.
12.4 : Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Flighted, full and on off. Nissanka eases it down to long off for a single.
12.5 : Keshav Maharaj to Wanindu Hasaranga, Darted on the pads. Hasaranga stays back and nudges it to square leg for a run.
12.6 : Keshav Maharaj to Pathum Nissanka, Tossed up, around off. Nissanka taps it to point. A good over for Sri Lanka, 10 runs off it. These two batters need to make sure they take things deep.
13.1 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Wanindu Hasaranga, Floated, full and around off. Hasaranga comes down the track and lifts it towards long off. They take one.
13.2 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Full and down leg. Nissanka sweeps it towards short fine leg, but straight to the man.
13.3 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Pathum Nissanka, Flatter and outside off. Nissanka stays on the back foot and pulls it towards mid-wicket for a single.
13.4 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Wanindu Hasaranga, OUT! CAUGHT! Wanindu Hasaranga has shown his intent of attack but he should've started off slowly. But that's not how he plays. Hasaranga looks to clear the fence at long on and pays the price. Floated, full, around middle and leg. Hasaranga goes back and lifts it towards long on. Aiden Markram there comes forward and takes a good diving catch. Half of the Sri Lanka side has been sent back.
Sri Lanka's skipper, Dasun Shanaka walks out to bat.
13.5 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Dasun Shanaka, Full and outside off. Shanaka guides it towards short third man.
13.6 : Tabraiz Shamsi to Dasun Shanaka, Flighted, full and on off. Shanaka flicks it towards mid-wicket and gets a single. Shamsi ends his spell of 4 with 3 wickets and he gave away only 17 runs.
Dwaine Pretorius comes to bowl now.
14.1 : Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, A full-length ball, outside off. Shanaka comes across and looks to chase it but misses.
14.2 : Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Fuller and wide outside off. The ball stays low. Shanaka looks to go after it but misses. 
14.3 : Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Three dots in a row! A length ball, outside off. The ball moves away. Shanaka comes out and across hoping to connect but does not do it this time as well.
14.4 : Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Full and wide outside off. Shanaka get low and looks to slash it away but misses it again. He is frustrated with himsef. 4 dots on the trot.
14.5 : Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, Pretorius continues to bowl wide and outside off. Shanaka pushes it through covers for a single.
14.6 : Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, FIFTY for Nissanka. What an innings, a lot has been happening on the other end. But Nissanka made sure he keeps one end intact. A hard-fought knock by him. Just, when it mattered the most.
15.1 : Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Swing and a miss! Back of a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka looks to heave it away but he misses.
15.2 : Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Length ball, angling in from middle. Pathum Nissanka flicks it to deep square leg for a run.
0.0 : Anrich Nortje (2-0-13-1) is back on now.
15.3 : Anrich Nortje to Dasun Shanaka, Good-length ball, around off. Dasun Shanaka taps it to wide of cover and takes an easy single.
15.4 : Anrich Nortje to Pathum Nissanka, Short of a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka stands tall and looks to slog but he gets the toe end. The ball goes towards David Miller at long on for a single.
15.5 : Anrich Nortje to Dasun Shanaka, Back of a length, around off. Dasun Shanaka taps it to backward point.
15.6 : Anrich Nortje to Dasun Shanaka, FOUR! A welcome boundary for Dasun Shanaka and Sri Lanka! The Lankans bring up their 100 as well! Good-length ball, around off. Shanaka hoicks it over extra cover and collects a boundary.
16.1 : Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, FOUR! This is clever from Pathum Nissanka! Full ball, way outside off. Nissanka moves across and whips it past the square leg fielder for a boundary.
16.2 : Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, Leg bye! Length ball, outside off. Pathum Nissanka tries to be cheeky and looks to scoop it over the keeper but he misses and gets hit on the pads. The ball rolls away for a leg bye.
16.3 : Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, FOUR! Edgy, but Dasun Shanaka will take that! Back of a length, outside off. Shanaka looks to cut but gets a thick outside edge. The ball flies over the keeper and goes into the fence.
16.4 : Dwaine Pretorius to Dasun Shanaka, OUT! TAKEN! Dwaine Pretorius' plan comes off and that is a really good catch from Kagiso Rabada at sweeper cover. Pretorius sticks to his plan, bowls it full and outside off. Dasun Shanaka slices it uppishly. Kagiso Rabada at sweeper cover runs in and takes a good low catch.
Chamika Karunaratne walks out at number 8.
16.5 : Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, Back of a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka punches it to sweeper cover for a run.
16.6 : Dwaine Pretorius to Chamika Karunaratne, Good-length ball, outside off. Chamika Karunaratne taps it to backward point and takes a single.
17.1 : Kagiso Rabada to Chamika Karunaratne, Rabada hits the deck hard, around off. Chamika Karunaratne pushes it past point for a run.
0.0 : Kagiso Rabada (2-0-15-0) is back on. He replaces Anrich Nortje.
17.2 : Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, SIX! BANG! Pathum Nissanka is in the mood! Short of a length, outside off. Nissanka hangs back and sends it sailing way over deep mid-wicket for a biggie!
17.3 : Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, In the air, but safe! Slower ball, on a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka skips down and looks to drive but he gets a top edge behind point. A single taken!
17.4 : Kagiso Rabada to Chamika Karunaratne, Length ball, outside off. Chamika Karunaratne pushes it to cover and collects a run.
17.5 : Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, FOUR! Lovely shot! Short of a length, around off. Pathum Nissanka stays back and smacks it through square leg for a boundary.
17.6 : Kagiso Rabada to Pathum Nissanka, FOUR! WOW! Shot of the day, probably! Rabada bowls it into the deck, just outside off. Pathum Nissanka stands tall and carves it past the extra cover fielder. The ball races away to the fence.
18.1 : Dwaine Pretorius to Chamika Karunaratne, Full ball, outside off. Chamika Karunaratne drives it to wide of deep cover and takes a couple.
18.2 : Dwaine Pretorius to Chamika Karunaratne, OUT! CAUGHT! Another one bites the dust! Slower ball, into the pitch, around middle. Chamika Karunaratne skips down and looks to heave it away but he gets a top edge and the ball goes to the right of the long on fielder. Rassie van der Dussen at long on, runs there and takes a good catch.
18.3 : Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, Slower ball, on a length, outside off. Pathum Nissanka looks to reverse sweep but he fails to get any bat on it.
18.2 : Who will walk out now? Dushmantha Chameera it is.
18.4 : Dwaine Pretorius to Pathum Nissanka, OUT! TAKEN! Brilliant innings from Pathum Nissanka comes to an end! Dwaine Pretorius picks up his third wicket! Another slower ball, into the pitch, around off. Pathum Nissanka looks to pull but he only manages a top edge and the ball goes straight to Anrich Nortje at deep mid-wicket who takes a good catch.
18.5 : Dwaine Pretorius to Dushmantha Chameera, Fuller in length, outside off. Dushmantha Chameera moves across and heaves it to deep mid-wicket for a couple.
18.6 : Dwaine Pretorius to Dushmantha Chameera, Slower ball, on a length, outside off. Dushmantha Chameera shuffles across and heaves it to wide of the deep mid-wicket fielder. Two to end the over!
18.4 : Maheesh Theekshana walks out at number 10.
19.1 : Anrich Nortje to Dushmantha Chameera, Leg bye! Back of a length, angling in from middle. Dushmantha Chameera misses his heave and gets hit high on his thigh pad. The batters sneak in a leg bye!
18.6 : Anrich Nortje is back into the attack to bowl the final over of the innings.
19.2 : Anrich Nortje to Maheesh Theekshana, Excellent running! Good-length ball, on middle. Maheesh Theekshana tucks it to the leg side and collects a couple of runs.
19.3 : Anrich Nortje to Maheesh Theekshana, FOUR! STREAKY! Crucial runs for Sri Lanka these! Short of a length, on middle. Maheesh Theekshana backs away and looks to push it through covers. He gets a thick outside edge and the ball goes past keeper and into the fence.
19.4 : Anrich Nortje to Maheesh Theekshana, Length ball, around off. Maheesh Theekshana drills it to long on for a run.
19.5 : Anrich Nortje to Dushmantha Chameera, OUT! BOWLED! YOU MISS, I HIT, says Anrich Nortje! Good-length ball, around off. Dushmantha Chameera looks to heave it across the line but he misses and the ball crashes onto his off stump.
Lahiru Kumara comes out to bat now.
19.6 : Anrich Nortje to Lahiru Kumara, OUT! RUN OUT! Lahiru Kumara sacrifices his wicket on the last ball! Back of a length, outside off. Lahiru Kumara misses his slog but the batters look to sneak in a bye! Quinton de Kock collects the ball cleanly behind the sticks and throws it back to Anrich Nortje. Nortje catches it and whips the bails off at his end. Lahiru Kumara is short of his crease and Sri Lanka are bundled out for 142.
Have to say South Africa will be pleased with their effort with the ball on a wicket which does not seem that bad. The key for them was wickets at regular intervals. Everytime the momentum seemed like slipping, South Africa managed to strike. It was Nortje who started things off. Maharaj and Shamsi were really good in the middle overs. Pretorius was also very good after he was got on. Rabada though had a day to forget, had he been at his best, South Africa would have well been chasing 15 less. T
Lanka were probably guilty of being way too aggressive. They were just going after everything. Except for Nissanka and Asalanka (who was run out) the rest just gifted their wickets away, playing rash shots when not needed. Had it not been Nissanka who played brilliantly, they would have fallen well short of a competitive score. He needed someone else to give him able support, there were a few who got off to starts but none managed to convert it into something significant. They could have well go
Tabraiz Shamsi is in for a chat. He says, hitting the areas is the key and that paid off. States the run out was important and it came at the right time for them. Adds he is happy with the accolades but it is a team effort and he is just one of them contributing.
Sri Lanka though have given them a score to fight! They have variety in their bowling and not to forget a similar score was defended on the 29th of October. Can it be done again? South Africa though have a strong batting line-up and will fancy themselves to chase this down. Stay tuned for the second essay.
... The Run Chase ...
The chase is set to begin.
0.1 : Dushmantha Chameera to Quinton de Kock, South Africa and Quinton de Kock are up and running! Back of a length, on leg. Quinton de Kock tucks it to the leg side for a single.
0.2 : Dushmantha Chameera to Reeza Hendricks, Good-length ball, outside off. Reeza Hendricks taps it to backward point.
0.3 : Dushmantha Chameera to Reeza Hendricks, Another ball, shorter in length, around middle. Reeza Hendricks nudges it to mid-wicket.
0.4 : Dushmantha Chameera to Reeza Hendricks, Hendricks gets off the mark now! Good-length ball, darted on the pads. Reeza Hendricks flicks it to deep square leg for a run.
0.5 : Dushmantha Chameera to Quinton de Kock, NO BALL! That spoils a good over as Dushmantha Chameera oversteps. Good-length ball, on off. Quinton de Kock pushes it back to the bowler. Free Hit coming up!
Dushmantha Chameera to Quinton de Kock, Leg bye! Quinton de Kock could not make the most of the Free-Hit! Top delivery from Chameera! He bowls a yorker, around leg. Quinton de Kock misses his flick and gets hit low on his pad. The ball rolls away for a leg bye.
0.6 : Dushmantha Chameera to Reeza Hendricks, Good-length ball, on middle. Reeza Hendricks tucks it to mid-wicket. Just 4 runs off the first over!
Spin time. Maheesh Theekshana to bowl from the other end. 
1.1 : Maheesh Theekshana to Quinton de Kock, FOUR! Easy pickings! Tossed up, down leg. Quinton de Kock gets down on his knee and sweeps it behind square on the leg side for a boundary.
1.2 : Maheesh Theekshana to Quinton de Kock, Floated, around leg. Quinton de Kock flicks it to deep mid-wicket for a run.
1.3 : Maheesh Theekshana to Reeza Hendricks, Tossed up, on middle. Reeza Hendricks backs away and chips it over cover for a couple.
1.4 : Maheesh Theekshana to Reeza Hendricks, Flatter ball, around off. Reeza Hendricks eases it to long on for a single.
1.5 : Maheesh Theekshana to Quinton de Kock, Flighted delivery, around middle. Quinton de Kock makes room on the off side and lofts it to wide of long off for one.
1.6 : Maheesh Theekshana to Reeza Hendricks, Quicker ball, on a length, staying a tad low. Reeza Hendricks hangs back and works it to long on for a single. Good over for South Africa as 10 runs came off it.
2.1 : Lahiru Kumara to Reeza Hendricks, Short of a length, around off. Reeza Hendricks looks to drive on the up but it goes off the inner half towards short fine leg. A single taken.
1.6 : Lahiru Kumara comes into the attack now. He replaces Dushmantha Chameera.
2.2 : Lahiru Kumara to Quinton de Kock, Length ball, darted on the pads. Quinton de Kock tucks it behind square on the leg side for one.
2.3 : Lahiru Kumara to Reeza Hendricks, Back of a length, around off. Reeza Hendricks stays back and blocks it to cover.
2.4 : Lahiru Kumara to Reeza Hendricks, Good-length ball, angling in from middle. Reeza Hendricks looks to heave it away but it goes off the inner half of the blade towards deep square leg. The batters cross for a single.
2.5 : Lahiru Kumara to Quinton de Kock, FOUR! Exquisite timing from Quinton de Kock! Length ball, on the pads. De Kock flicks it to wide of the mid on fielder to collect a boundary.
2.6 : Lahiru Kumara to Quinton de Kock, Length ball, around off. Quinton de Kock drives but straight to mid off.
3.1 : Dushmantha Chameera to Reeza Hendricks, FOUR! Lucky runs for Reeza Hendricks! Good-length ball, outside off. Reeza Hendricks looks to cut but he gets a thick inside edge. The ball goes past the keeper and into the fine leg fence.
3.2 : Review time! Reeza Hendricks decides to take it upstairs. The UltraEdge shows there is flat line as the ball passes the blade. The Ball Tracker shows three reds and Reeza Hendricks has to walk back.
Dushmantha Chameera to Reeza Hendricks, OUT! LBW! Dushmantha Chameera strikes and South Africa lose their first wicket! Good-length ball, jagging back in a bit from off. Reeza Hendricks stands tall and looks to work it to the leg side but he misses. He gets hit high on his pad and Dushmantha Chameera puts in an appeal. The umpire raises his finger in no time. Reeza Hendricks decides to review but the Ball Tracker indicates three reds and Hendricks has to walk back.
3.3 : Dushmantha Chameera to Rassie van der Dussen, Back of a length, down leg. Rassie van der Dussen flicks it to deep mid-wicket to get off the mark with one.
3.2 : Rassie van der Dussen comes out at number 3. He has been pushed up the order.
3.4 : Dushmantha Chameera to Quinton de Kock, OUT! CAUGHT AND BOWLED! Dushmantha Chameera gets the big fish and South Africa are in a spot of bother now! Back of a length, around middle, the ball hurries onto Quinton de Kock as he looks to pull. He gets a top edge and the ball goes high in the air just to the left of de Kock. Dushmantha Chameera calls for it, he runs forward and takes a good catch.
Temba Bavuma comes out at number 4. He must've not expected to come out so early. But now he has a task in front of him.
3.5 : Dushmantha Chameera to Temba Bavuma, Well bowled! Good-length ball, angling in from middle. Temba Bavuma looks to flick but he misses and gets hit on the pads.
3.6 : Dushmantha Chameera to Temba Bavuma, Length ball, around off. Temba Bavuma blocks it off the front foot. 5 runs and 2 wickets off the over!
4.1 : Lahiru Kumara to Rassie van der Dussen, Back of a length, on the pads. Rassie van der Dussen tucks it behind square on the leg side. Wanindu Hasaranga runs to his right from deep square leg and keeps it to two.
4.2 : Lahiru Kumara to Rassie van der Dussen, This is sloppy from Sri Lanka! Good-length ball, on middle. Rassie van der Dussen tucks it to mid-wicket for a quick run. The fielder there has a shy at the striker's end but he misses. The fielder backing up isn't watching the ball and the batters take one more.
The umpires are having a check if Rassie van der Dussen has obstructed the field here.
4.4 : Lahiru Kumara to Rassie van der Dussen, Full ball, outside off. Rassie van der Dussen drives towards mid off. The fielder puts in a dive to his left and saves three runs for his side.
4.3 : Lahiru Kumara to Rassie van der Dussen, Length ball, around off. Rassie van der Dussen hits it back to the bowler. Lahiru Kumara collects it and looks to have a shy at the striker's end but he throws it straight back at Rassie van der Dussen. The ball hits him on the pads and Lahiru Kumara puts in an appeal as he thinks Rassie van der Dussen has obstructed the field here.
4.5 : Lahiru Kumara to Temba Bavuma, Short of a length, around off. Temba Bavuma blocks it off the back foot.
4.2 : What is happening here. Lahiru Kumara is appealing for something. Kumara had a shy at the striker's end, but it looks like Rassie van der Dussen puts in a bat which means he was obstructing the field. The third umpire says the batter did not have the intention of blocking it. The decision is not out.
5.1 : Chamika Karunaratne to Temba Bavuma, On a length, outside off. Bavuma looks to chase it away but misses. There was not much bounce though this time.
4.6 : Lahiru Kumara to Temba Bavuma, A full toss, on off. Bavuma pushes it towards mid off. The batters take off  for a single. Teh fielder collects the ball but misses his shy at the non-striker's end.
5.2 : Chamika Karunaratne to Temba Bavuma, Slower one now. Full, around middle and leg. Bavuma pushes it towards mid on. There is a misfield and the batters sneak a run.
5.3 : Chamika Karunaratne to Rassie van der Dussen, Again a tight run! These batters are taking a lot of risk. Full and on off. Rassie van der Dussen pushes it to mid off. The batters take off for a single. The fielder collects the ball and misses his shy at the non-striker's end. If the wickets were hit, Rassie van der Dussen was a goner.
5.4 : Chamika Karunaratne to Temba Bavuma, A length ball, around off. Bavuma looks to push it to the off side. But the ball takes the inner half and bounces in front of the stumps, Bavuma turns around and looks to kick it away, but the ball ends up landing safely beside the stumps.
5.5 : Chamika Karunaratne to Temba Bavuma, Full and on middle. Bavuma pushes it to cover and takes a quick single.
5.6 : Chamika Karunaratne to Rassie van der Dussen, FIVE RUNS! Overthrows. Free runs for South Africa. Full and on the pads. Rassie van der Dussen tucks it to mid-wicket. The batters decide to take a run. The fielder collects the ball and has a shy at the non-striker's end but misses. There is no back up behind the stumps. The ball goes through to the boundary at covers.
6.1 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Rassie van der Dussen, Darted on the pads, Rassie van der Dussen flicks it to square leg for a single.
0.0 : Wanindu Hasaranga comes to bowl now.
6.2 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Temba Bavuma, Flatter and around off. Bavuma pushes it to cover for a single.
6.3 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Rassie van der Dussen, Another single now! Floated, full and on middle. Rassie van der Dussen heaves it towards mid-wicket for a single.
6.4 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Temba Bavuma, Googly, around leg. Bavuma looks to heave it across the line. He gets hit on the pads. Hasaranga appeals but the umpire says no. 
6.6 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Temba Bavuma, Floated, around off. Bavuma taps it towards point for a single.
6.5 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Temba Bavuma, Touch short and on middle. Bavuma stays on the back foot and pulls it to mid-wicket but straight to the fielder.
7.1 : Chamika Karunaratne to Temba Bavuma, Fuller length and on middle. Bavuma comes forward and flicks it past mid on for a single.
7.2 : Chamika Karunaratne to Rassie van der Dussen, Full-length ball, outside off. Rassie van der Dussen drives it through cover and gets a single.
7.3 : Chamika Karunaratne to Temba Bavuma, NOT OUT! Innovation from Temba Bavuma could have gotten him into trouble. A length ball, on off. Bavuma comes across and looks to scoop it over the keeper's head but misses. He gets hit on his pads. Chamika Karunaratne appeals but the umpire says no. They opt to go for the review. The UltraEdge shows the bat is absent. The Ball Tracker shows there is umpire's call on impact which saves the South African skipper.
7.4 : Chamika Karunaratne to Temba Bavuma, A length ball, around middle and leg. Bavuma flicks it through mid-wicket for a single.
7.5 : Chamika Karunaratne to Rassie van der Dussen, Good-length ball, outside off. Rassie van der Dussen looks to cut it away. He gets an underedge and the ball lands besides the stumps. They take a single.
7.6 : Chamika Karunaratne to Temba Bavuma, WIDE! Full and wide outside off. Temba Bavuma looks to chase it but misses. Chamika Karunaratne puts in a mute appeal for caught behind, but the umpire signals it as a wide.
7.3 : Review time! Chamika Karunaratne has convinced Dasun Shanaka to opt for a review! Temba Bavuma has been hit on his pads while trying to scoop it over the keeper's head. The Ball Tracker suggests that the impact is umpire's call so the on-field decision remains.
7.6 : Chamika Karunaratne to Temba Bavuma, OUT! RUN OUT! Finally a direct hit and Sri Lanka Lions are roaring now. Another one bites the dust in the form of Rassie van der Dussen. A length ball, on off. Bavuma pushes it to cover. Rassie van der Dussen is down the track looking for a single, but was sent back. Dasun Shanaka collects the ball and scores a direct hit at the non-striker's end. Rassie van der Dussen out of the crease by a long margin, an easy decision for the umpire.
8.1 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Aiden Markram, Floated, around off. This one spins in a bit. Aiden Markram tucks it to mid-wicket and gets off the mark with a single.
8.2 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Temba Bavuma, On middle, Bavuma flicks it through mid-wicket for another single.
0.0 : Aiden Markram is the new man in.
8.3 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Aiden Markram, On off, Markram blocks it out.
8.4 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Aiden Markram, Tossed up, around middle, Markram tucks it to mid-wicket but the fielder dives to his left to stop it.
8.5 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Aiden Markram, Full and on off. Markram pushes it to the left of the bowler. Hasaranga dives to that side and saves a run.
8.6 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Aiden Markram, Flatter and on off. Markram flicks it through mid-wicket for a run.
9.1 : Chamika Karunaratne to Aiden Markram, OH CLOSE! Good-length ball, around off. Markram looks to push it to the off side. The ball takes the inside edge, scoots past the stumps and goes towards fine leg. The batters pick up a single.
9.2 : Chamika Karunaratne to Temba Bavuma, On a length, around off. Bavuma drives it through covers. The batters pick two easily.
9.3 : Chamika Karunaratne to Temba Bavuma, Good length and outside off. Bavuma comes across and punches it through point. The fielder in the deep, does well to save the boundary. The batters take two.
9.4 : Chamika Karunaratne to Temba Bavuma, A length ball, on middle. Bavuma nudges it to mid-wicket and gets a single.
9.5 : Chamika Karunaratne to Aiden Markram, FOUR! Markram has been outstanding in this campign. He is justing continuing on his merry way. A length ball, outside off. Markram stands tall and drives it through extra cover to bag a boundary.
9.6 : Chamika Karunaratne to Aiden Markram, Length and on off. Markram pushes it to cover.
DRINKS! The game is nicely poised at the halfway mark and Sri Lanka would feel that they have their noses slightly ahead after the wicket of Rassie van der Dussen. The Proteas would hope that their in-form batter in Aiden Markram plays a good innings and takes them over the line.
10.1 : Maheesh Theekshana to Temba Bavuma, Tossed up, outside off. Temba Bavuma prods and taps it behind square on the off side for one.
10.2 : Maheesh Theekshana to Aiden Markram, Flatter ball, around off. Aiden Markram punches it to extra cover.
10.3 : Maheesh Theekshana to Aiden Markram, A half-tracker, around off. Aiden Markram rocks back and pulls it along the ground to deep mid-wicket for a single.
10.4 : Maheesh Theekshana to Temba Bavuma, Another short ball, around middle. Temba Bavuma rocks back and miscues his pull to wide of deep mid-wicket. The batters cross for a run.
10.5 : Maheesh Theekshana to Aiden Markram, Flatter ball, on middle. Aiden Markram goes back in his crease and eases it to long on for a run.
10.6 : Maheesh Theekshana to Temba Bavuma, A touch quicker, around off. Temba Bavuma hangs back and whips it to wide of long on for a single.
11.1 : Dasun Shanaka to Temba Bavuma, Full ball, outside off. Temba Bavuma carves it past the diving cover fielder. The fielder at mid off gives it a chase and keeps it to two.
11.2 : Dasun Shanaka to Temba Bavuma, Slower ball, into the pitch, around middle. Temba Bavuma tucks it to wide of long on and takes a couple of runs.
11.3 : Dasun Shanaka to Temba Bavuma, Length ball, outside off. Temba Bavuma prods and works it towards long on. A single taken!
11.4 : Dasun Shanaka to Aiden Markram, Length ball, way outside off. Aiden Markram reaches out and carves it to deep cover for a run.
11.5 : Dasun Shanaka to Temba Bavuma, Full ball, outside off. Temba Bavuma drives but finds the cover fielder.
11.6 : Dasun Shanaka to Temba Bavuma, A single to end the over! Short ball, outside off. Temba Bavuma hangs back and pulls it straight to the deep mid-wicket fielder. 69 runs needed from 48 balls!
12.1 : Maheesh Theekshana to Temba Bavuma, Outside off, this is pushed through covers for one.
12.2 : Maheesh Theekshana to Aiden Markram, Markram comes down the track, the bowler slows it up, he swings, it goes off the inner half through mid-wicket for one.
12.3 : Maheesh Theekshana to Temba Bavuma, FOUR! Finds the gap and a welcome boundary for South Africa. Way too short. Bavuma rocks back and hammers the ball over mid-wicket. Really good from the South African skipper.
12.4 : Maheesh Theekshana to Temba Bavuma, On off, this is pushed down to long off for one.
12.5 : Maheesh Theekshana to Aiden Markram, WIDE! Bonus runs. Lanka can't afford this. Down the leg side. Wided.
Maheesh Theekshana to Aiden Markram, On middle, this is whipped down to long on for one. Sensible stuff.
12.6 : Maheesh Theekshana to Temba Bavuma, Good cricket again! Stays back and nudged this on the leg side for one. Good over for the batting side. 59 needed in 42.
13.1 : Lahiru Kumara to Temba Bavuma, Good length and on off, this is eased through covers for one more.
13.2 : Lahiru Kumara to Aiden Markram, Markram makes room. This is on middle, he hits it hare to mid off for one.
0.0 : Lahiru Kumara (2-0-13-0) is back on.
13.3 : Lahiru Kumara to Temba Bavuma, Good change in length! Short and on middle, Bavuma is taken by surprise. He looks to pull but gets a top edge which hits the body and goes towards point.
13.4 : Lahiru Kumara to Temba Bavuma, Fuller and on middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
13.5 : Lahiru Kumara to Aiden Markram, A dot! That will build pressure. A slower one, yorker length, outside off. Markram looks to play it down to long off but misses.
13.6 : Lahiru Kumara to Aiden Markram, Just a single! A brilliant over by Kumara. Full and on off, this is pushed down to long off for one.
change
Change.
14.1 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Aiden Markram, Tossed up, on leg. Aiden Markram drills it to deep mid-wicket for a single.
14.2 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Temba Bavuma, Tossed up, outside off. Temba Bavuma drives hard but finds the cover fielder.
14.3 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Temba Bavuma, Flatter ball, on a length, on middle. Temba Bavuma heaves it to wide of deep mid-wicket and takes a couple of runs. Had there been a direct hit at the bowler's end Aiden Markram was a goner!
14.4 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Temba Bavuma, Tossed up, on middle. Temba Bavuma tucks it to the leg side for one.
14.5 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Aiden Markram, FOUR! A much-needed boundary for South Africa! Just a tad short, outside off. Aiden Markram hits it to wide of the long on fielder and collects a boundary.
14.6 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Aiden Markram, OUT! BOWLED! Wanindu Hasaranga strikes and he gets the big wicket of Aiden Markram! A huge moment in this game as Markram was the in-form batter! Quicker ball, around off. Aiden Markram stays back to cut but he misses and the ball crashes onto his off stump. Sri Lanka BELIEVE!
David Miller comes out to bat now. Also, a bowling change for Sri Lanka. Maheesh Theekshana comes into the attack to bowl his final over.
15.1 : Maheesh Theekshana to Temba Bavuma, Tossed up, on middle. Temba Bavuma drills it to long on for a run.
15.2 : Maheesh Theekshana to David Miller, Flatter ball, on off. David Miller punches it to long off to get off the mark with a run.
15.3 : Maheesh Theekshana to Temba Bavuma, Slightly quicker, around middle. Temba Bavuma tucks it to deep mid-wicket for another single.
15.4 : Maheesh Theekshana to David Miller, Flatter ball, darted on the pads. David Miller stays back and flicks it behind square on the leg side for one. South Africa bring up their 100!
15.5 : Maheesh Theekshana to Temba Bavuma, A full toss, outside off. Temba Bavuma pushes it to deep cover. A single taken!
15.6 : Maheesh Theekshana to David Miller, On a length, around off. David Miller eases it to long off for a run. 41 runs needed off 24 balls now!
16.1 : Dushmantha Chameera to David Miller, Good-length ball, on leg. David Miller misses his flick and gets hit high on his pad.
0.0 : Dushmantha Chameera (2-0-8-2) comes back into the attack.
16.2 : Dushmantha Chameera to David Miller, Leg bye! Short of a length, around leg. David Miller looks to heave it away but the ball hurries onto him and he misses. The ball rolls away to the leg side after brushing his thigh pad. A leg bye!
16.3 : Dushmantha Chameera to Temba Bavuma, Play and a miss! Good-length ball, outside off. Temba Bavuma skips down and looks to slog but he misses.
16.4 : Dushmantha Chameera to Temba Bavuma, SIX! BANG! Just what South Africa needed at this stage! Chameera hurls a length ball, in the slot, around middle. Temba Bavuma stays back and tonks it way, way over deep mid-wicket for a biggie!
16.5 : Dushmantha Chameera to Temba Bavuma, This is sensible batting from South Africa's skipper! Length ball, around off. Temba Bavuma flicks it to wide of long on and takes a couple of runs.
16.6 : Dushmantha Chameera to Temba Bavuma, A single to end the over! Good-length ball, around leg. Temba Bavuma hangs back and nudges it to deep square leg for one. 31 runs needed off 18 balls!
Wanindu Hasaranga comes back to bowl.
17.1 : Dwaine Pretorius walks out to bat.
Dwaine Pretorius walks out at number 7.
Wanindu Hasaranga to Temba Bavuma, OUT! CAUGHT! Wanindu Hasaranga strikes right when it mattered the most. Floated, and on off. Bavuma hangs back and pulls it to deep mid-wicket. Pathum Nissanka near the ropes, leaps and plucks it out of thin air. Wanindu Hasaranga is on a Hat-Trick as he took a wicket on the last ball of his last over.
17.2 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Dwaine Pretorius, OUT! CAUGHT! Oh My God! Wanindu Hasaranga, you legend. He has taken a Hat-Trick. Dwaine Pretorius walks back on a golden duck. Sri Lanka are well on top in this game now. It is all going their way. Loopy ball, full and on off. Dwaine Pretorius lifts it towards long on. Bhanuka Rajapaksa grabs the ball cleanly and Wanindu Hasaranga is up and running in celebration.
Kagiso Rabada is the new man in.
17.3 : Wanindu Hasaranga to Kagiso Rabada, LEG BYE! Not out! Hasaranga could not get his fourth wicket on the trot. It would've been sublime. Loopy ball, around leg. Rabada looks to flick it away but misses. He gets rapped on the pads. Hasaranga appeals but the umpire says no. They take it upstairs but the impact was outside leg. Rabada survives. The batters get a leg bye in the end.
17.4 : Wanindu Hasaranga to David Miller, Short and on off. Miller pulls it through mid-wicket for a couple.
17.5 : Wanindu Hasaranga to David Miller, Full and on off. Miller works it through mid-wicket for another couple of runs.
17.6 : Wanindu Hasaranga to David Miller, Floated, around off. Miller pushes it out and takes a single. 25 needed in 12 balls.
17.2 : Review time! Sri Lanka have opted for a review. Kagiso Rabada has been struck on his pads. The Ball Tracker shows that it was pitched outside leg and Sri Lanka lose their review!
18.1 : Dushmantha Chameera to David Miller, Yorker length, around off. Miller hangs back and drills it towards long on for a single. 
18.2 : Dushmantha Chameera to Kagiso Rabada, Full length and on off. Kagiso Rabada pushes it to long off for another single.
18.3 : Dushmantha Chameera to David Miller, Another single now! South Africa need a boundary in this over to make it easier for them. A length ball, on off. Miller jabs it down the ground to long off for a single.
18.5 : Dushmantha Chameera to Kagiso Rabada, Full toss, wide outside off. Rabada looks to chase it but misses. It could've gone anywhere, but it only goes to the keeper.
18.4 : Dushmantha Chameera to Kagiso Rabada, SIX! ALL THE WAY! Rabada says no problem, i'll take care of the boundary. A full-length ball, on off. Chameera misses his yorker by a mark. Rabada clears his front leg and muscles it down the ground for a biggie.
18.6 : Dushmantha Chameera to Kagiso Rabada, Full and wide outside off. Rabada slashes it through covers for a single. Rabada to take the strike in the final over.
19.1 : Lahiru Kumara to Kagiso Rabada, Rabada takes no time to change the strike. Full, around middle and leg. Rabada looks to heave it away. The ball takes the inner half and goes towards fine leg. They take a single. South Africa would be happy to see David Miller on the strike now.
18.6 : Lahiru Kumara to bowl the last over.
19.2 : Lahiru Kumara to David Miller, SIX! BANG! Miller certainly got hold of that. Pressure back on Sri Lanka. Full and on middle. Miller stays back and hoicks it across the line over the mid-wicket fence for a biggie. Infact, the ball is send out of the park here.
19.3 : Lahiru Kumara to David Miller, SIX! Oh dear, Miller connects again. We have seen him do it over the years, but under pressure, that is something else. A full-length ball, around middle and leg. Miller clears his front leg and smokes it over the mid-wicket fence for a maximum. 
19.4 : Lahiru Kumara to David Miller, Back of a length, on the bodyline. Miller pulls it awkwardly towards square leg and gets a single.
19.5 : Lahiru Kumara to Kagiso Rabada, FOUR! RABADA SAYS GAME DONE! South Africa have managed the snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. Back of a length, around off. Rabada looks to push it to the off side. The ball takes the outside edge, goes past the keeper and into the boundary at third man. SOUTH AFRICA WIN THE GAME BY 4 WICKETS.
Cometh the hour, cometh the man. David Miller, you absolute beauty. Take a bow. Whoever was watching, just take a moment, get on your feet and give this man a standing ovation. He keeps South Africa’s dream alive with a scintillating cameo.
It seemed like it would be Sri Lanka who would win it when Hasaranga bowled that magical 18th over but there was a Miller special in store. Yes, he did receive help from Rabada but his two sixes in the last over were the crucial hits to get his side over the line.
South Africa though struggled throughout the run chase. Then there were a couple of partnerships between Rassie van der Dussen and Temba Bavuma and then Bavuma and Markram but the two stands were broken at the wrong time for the Proteas. Then came the over in which two wickets fell and that pushed SoutH Africa completely onto the back foot. It came down to 15 from the last over and it was their finisher, Miller, who gave them the vital two points.
Have to feel sorry for Lanka. They bowled so well for most of the game. Hasaranga was the pick with a three-fer, a hat-trick. Chameera was excellent with the new ball. Kumara too was decent but his last over cost Lanka the game. Also, this is the second successive game where a Sri Lankan spinner has taken a hat-trick and they have ended up on the losing side. This really is a morale deflating loss.
Earlier in the day, the South African bowlers did really well to keep Sri Lanka to a low score. The Lankan bowlers though made run scoring really tough. At one stage, they seemed favourites to win it but it was a special knock from Miller which proved to be the difference.
... Presentation Time ...
Tabraiz Shamsi is the Player of the Match, for his brilliant spell with the ball. He says that it is his first Man of the Match trophy but credits David Miller for his outstanding knock today. Adds that he is glad that he is getting regular chances to play now and it has helped him. Tells that he is enjoying his time with this South African side and says that they are one of the best bowling attacks going around in the world.
The skipper of Sri Lanka, Dasun Shanaka says, Kumara was nailing his yorker’s in the practise session and thought he could pull it off. Credits to the South African batters, for finishing the game well. Mentions, Nissanka will be a real prospect for the future of Lanka cricket. Ends by saying they will hope to win the remaining two games and if they have to leave, they leave with pride.
Temba Bavuma, the skipper of South Africa, says that it is quite hard to put into words what has happened in  the last couple of days. Adds that he was a lot of tensed bit also says that David Miller is an experienced batter and he batted really well. Tells that Tabraiz Shamsi is a weapon with the ball and he has been doing well for them. Talking about his wicket, he says that the shot was on but he failed to hit it over the ropes.
That it is from this game but do not go anywhere as the action now shifts to Dubai where England will take on Australia. That match starts at 6 pm local (2 pm GMT). So switch tabs and enjoy the ride. Cheers!