South Africa vs Sri Lanka First Test: Best Bets & Prediction

South Africa and Sri Lanka are set to face off in the first Test of the 2024/25 series at Kingsmead, Durban, starting on Wednesday. This two-match series is pivotal for both sides as they vie for critical ICC World Test Championship (WTC) points. We look at the best bets an predictions for this encounter.

Venue: Kingsmead

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South Africa, ranked fifth on the WTC table, must win four of their remaining matches, including this series, to keep their hopes alive for a spot in the final at Lord’s. Coming off mixed results with four wins and three losses, the Proteas will look to capitalise on home conditions and their superior track record against Sri Lanka, particularly in Durban.

Sri Lanka, sitting third in the WTC standings, aims to build on their recent 2-0 Test series win over New Zealand. However, their inconsistent top-order batting remains a concern, and they will face a formidable South African bowling attack. Historically, Sri Lanka has struggled against South Africa, winning only three of their 16 Tests on South African soil.

With South Africa leading the head-to-head record 16-9 and dominating at home, they remain firm favourites. However, Sri Lanka’s resilience and recent form promise a competitive series, crucial for both teams’ WTC aspirations.

South Africa possesses the depth and composure needed to deliver a strong performance against Sri Lanka in their upcoming clash. While Sri Lanka have shown recent success, their vulnerabilities, especially against pace on South African pitches, could be exploited by the hosts. Back the Proteas to win at 1.51.

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