Jayasuriya Reflects on Series Defeat to South Africa: 'We Couldn't Compete Long Enough'
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New Delhi, Dec 10 (NationPress) Sri Lanka's head coach Sanath Jayasuriya has voiced his disappointment regarding the team's performance in the latest Test series against South Africa, stating that his squad couldn't remain competitive long enough to challenge the Proteas.
Sri Lanka suffered a defeat in the second Test at St. George's Park in Gqeberha by 109 runs, resulting in a 2-0 series loss, which considerably jeopardizes Sri Lanka's aspirations for a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final.
A remarkable victory over England in the third Test away, followed by a 2-0 home sweep against New Zealand, highlighted Sri Lanka's recent Test performances, leading them to South Africa with confidence.
However, the 2-0 series defeat against the Proteas has critically undermined Sri Lanka's chances of qualifying for the WTC25 Final, leaving them reliant on numerous favorable results for any hope of progression.
"It has been a positive turnaround, indeed, but this series has been disappointing. We had our opportunities, but couldn't stay in the game long enough to challenge South Africa. We will address the problematic areas upon our return home," Jayasuriya stated in an interview with Telecom Asia Sports.
"Only five Sri Lankans have achieved Test centuries in South Africa, making it a challenging venue for batting. Patience and resilience are essential. While you might get away with some flashy shots back home, here, it's all about determination. Dinesh Chandimal and Pathum Nissanka had their chances, but both squandered their wickets," he elaborated.
Jayasuriya pointed out the critical moments where Sri Lanka lost control, noting that South Africa's lower-order partnerships contributed 89 vital runs.
"We should have limited them to 300 in the second innings, but we allowed their tail to flourish. This is a recurring issue. Either our tactics misfire, or we ease off after dismissing the top order. We recognized the problem but couldn't rectify it," he explained.
Sri Lanka currently sits fourth in the WTC standings and will face Australia in a two-match Test series in January.
Even if Sri Lanka secures victories in both Tests against Australia, they would only attain a score of 53.85, leaving them dependent on other results, as both South Africa and either India or Australia could surpass that score; India would require a win and a draw, while Australia would need two wins.
