South Africa clinch T20I series vs Sri Lanka

COLOMBO: An unbeaten 58 off 48 deliveries by South African opener Quinton de Kock and fine bowling performances by Aiden Markram (3/21) and Tabraiz Shamsi (3/20) helped the visitors come up with a commanding performance to win the second T20I at the R Premadasa Stadium against Sri Lanka by nine wickets, to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series.

Batting first, Sri Lanka were bundled out for 103 in 18.1 overs. In reply, South Africa notched up the required total for the loss of one wicket with 35 balls remaining.

Sri Lanka lost their final three wickets in a span of eight balls and were bowled out for just 103 after being 52/2 at one point.

In reply, South Africa had a blistering start, with Quinton de Kock playing the role of an aggressor. Reeza Hendricks on the other hand was happy to rotate the strike. The wicketkeeper-batsman looked in sublime touch, playing some fine shots.

The pair soon brought up their 50-run partnership, as the Proteas were cruising home to a comfortable victory. But Wanindu Hasaranga struck for the hosts, breaking the 62-run stand by notching the scalp of Hendricks for 18. Soon after, rain interrupted the proceedings with South Africa requiring 39 runs in 66 deliveries.

After the re-start, de Kock joined by Aiden Markram made easy work of the chase, as the former brought up his half-century.

They sealed the victory with nine wickets in hand, to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series.

Brief scores: Sri Lanka 103 in 18.1 overs (K Perera 30; A Markram 3/21, T Shamsi 3/20) lost to South Africa 105/1 in 14.1 overs (Q de Kock 58 not out, A Markram 21 not out) by 9 wickets. IANS

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