South Africa A tame Lions with two sessions to spare
South Africa A Claim Victory Over England Lions
South Africa A has secured an eight-wicket win over England Lions in the first of two unofficial Test matches at Arundel, with the home side requiring just two sessions to overcome the target of 215 runs.
The tourists had given the South Africans a target to tackle after Asa Tribe and Ben Mayes scored sensational centuries. However, half-centuries from Lesego Senokwane, Jordan Hermann, and Zubayr Hamza ensured that the South Africans claimed the victory before lunch on the final day.
A Competitive Performance from England Lions
Despite the margin of victory, England Lions put up a competitive performance, with a young and inexperienced side showing glimpses of their potential. The tourists had been bowled out for 157 on the first day but showed resilience to push the South Africans to the final day.
The difference in experience between the two teams was evident, with five of the South African players having played Test cricket and all but captain Marques Ackerman having been capped at international level in other formats. In contrast, the England Lions had just two players over the age of 28.
Notable Performances
Glamorgan’s Asa Tribe was perhaps the biggest winner for England, scoring his first century of the summer after narrowly missing out on a maiden Test call-up for the series against New Zealand. His 135 demonstrated true maturity, and he batted the Lions back into the match.
Ben Mayes also scored his first professional hundred, which will certainly not be his last. The fast bowling also had moments of high pace and skill, with Mitchell Stanley and Eddie Jack putting their talents on display.
The pitch at Arundel Castle was also worthy of praise, offering something to everyone at some part of the match. Whether it was for the fast bowlers on the first day, batters from then on, or spin bowlers from the end of the second day, the pitch provided an exciting contest.
The two sides will now play another four-day match at Beckenham, starting on Friday, ahead of three 50-over games. The South Africans will look to build on their victory, while the England Lions will aim to bounce back and level the series.
