With a commanding lead of 281 runs and seven wickets in hand, the Proteas Men aimed to seize control of the match with two in-form batters, Temba Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs, at the crease.
Under the scorching sun, the pacers found little help from the pitch, though Vishwa provided some hope for the visitors.
After a delivery that didn’t carry to the keeper and a close LBW call that Bavuma survived, Vishwa’s third chance was squandered by his teammate, Mathews.
Vishwa mixed up his lengths well, delivering a good-length ball just outside off stump, which Stubbs attempted to play at. The ball seamed away slightly, catching the outside edge and flying toward first slip, where Mathews was positioned.
However, the seasoned Sri Lankan fumbled the catch, with the ball slipping from his grasp after a muffled thud. Witnessing another missed opportunity, Vishwa sank to his knees, his head touching the pitch in frustration.
They Have Glenn Phillips, We have Angelo Mathews. #SAvSL https://t.co/7B5rBXxb8m pic.twitter.com/bBSx4DOmuP
— Lahiru Abeysinghe (@lahiruabey_) November 29, 2024
The disappointment was palpable, not only among the visitors but also across Twitter, as fans sympathized with the fast bowler’s efforts going unrewarded.