South Africa vs. Sri Lanka Test Series 2024 Overview

The series comprises two Test matches, both crucial for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25standings. South Africa is hosting Sri Lanka on home soil, with matches scheduled at iconic venues known for their pace and bounce.

---

Series Schedule and Time Table

First Test Match:

• Date: November 27–December 1, 2024
• Venue: Kingsmead, Durban
• Match Start Time: 10:00 AM local time (8:00 AM GMT, 1:30 PM IST)
• Key Highlights:
  • Kingsmead is known for its seaming conditions, especially early in the match.
  • Both teams are likely to field strong pace attacks to exploit the pitch.

Second Test Match:

• Date: December 5–9, 2024
• Venue: St George’s Park, Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth)
• Match Start Time: 10:00 AM local time (8:00 AM GMT, 1:30 PM IST)
• Key Highlights:
  • St George’s Park offers slightly slower conditions but retains support for fast bowlers.
  • Spin could play a bigger role as the game progresses.

---

Match Venues

1. Kingsmead, Durban:
   • Known for: Early movement for seamers, unpredictable weather conditions, and consistent pace.
   • Capacity: Approximately 25,000 spectators.
   • Iconic Matches: The venue hosted one of Sri Lanka’s greatest wins in 2019 when Kusal Perera scored a miraculous 153*.
2. St George’s Park, Gqeberha:
   • Known for: Historic charm, slow outfields, and balanced conditions for bat and ball.
   • Capacity: Around 19,000 spectators.
   • Fun Fact: Famous for its brass band that cheers on during matches, adding a unique flavor to games here.

---

Team Squads (Highlights):

South Africa Squad:

• Captain: Temba Bavuma
• Key Players:
  • Kagiso Rabada: Leading the pace attack with exceptional skills in all conditions.
  • Marco Jansen: Adds variety with left-arm pace and can contribute with the bat.
  • Aiden Markram: A technically solid opener who can counter Sri Lanka’s bowling attack.

Sri Lanka Squad:

• Captain: Dhananjaya de Silva
• Key Players:
  • Lahiru Kumara: The leader of Sri Lanka’s pace unit, capable of extracting bounce and swing.
  • Kusal Mendis: The mainstay of the batting lineup, known for his adaptability.
  • Angelo Mathews: Provides experience and composure in pressure situations.

---

Broadcast and Live Streaming Details

• TV Broadcast: The series is being broadcast live on major sports networks like SuperSport (South Africa), Star Sports (India), and SLRC (Sri Lanka).
• Live Streaming: Available on platforms like Disney+ Hotstar, SuperSport’s official app, and ICC.tv for global viewers.
• Match Timings: 10:00 AM Local Time (South Africa)

---

Historical Rivalry

• Head-to-Head in Tests (Before This Series):
  • Matches Played: 33
  • South Africa Wins: 16
  • Sri Lanka Wins: 9
  • Draws: 8
• Notable Encounters:
  • 2018-19 Series: Sri Lanka became the first Asian side to win a Test series in South Africa.
  • 2020 Test at Johannesburg: South Africa dominated with an innings victory, led by Faf du Plessis’ double century.

---

How to Follow the Series?

• Match Analysis and Updates: Check leading cricket forums and social media platforms for live commentary and detailed updates.
• Stats and Highlights: Post-match analysis will focus on WTC standings, individual performances, and key moments.
• Player Watch: Keep an eye on young talents like Marco Jansen (SA) and Prabath Jayasuriya (SL), who are set to play pivotal roles.

---

This series promises to be a competitive contest with high stakes for the World Test Championship. Enjoy the cricket action! 🏏