Sri Lanka’s recent performance against South Africa in the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup was nothing short of a debacle. Bundled out for a meager 77 runs, Sri Lanka recorded its lowest T20I total ever, eclipsing their previous lowest of 82 against India in 2016.

Sri Lanka’s Batting Collapse

Winning the toss and opting to bat, Sri Lanka hoped to set a challenging target for South Africa. However, a disciplined bowling attack, led by star pacer Anrich Nortje, had other plans. Sri Lanka’s innings crumbled, finishing at a paltry 77 runs in 19.1 overs.

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The Powerplay phase saw Sri Lanka managing only 24 runs while losing one wicket. The cautious approach and inability to capitalize on the fielding restrictions set the tone for the rest of the innings.

Anrich Nortje’s Dominance

Anrich Nortje was the standout performer, ripping through Sri Lanka’s batting lineup with a remarkable spell of 4 wickets for just 7 runs. His performance not only secured the best bowling figures for South Africa in a T20 World Cup but also showcased his prowess as a top-tier fast bowler.

Nortje’s first breakthrough came with the dismissal of Kamindu Mendis, followed by crucial wickets of Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka in successive overs. These dismissals were pivotal, breaking the back of Sri Lanka’s batting and ensuring no significant partnerships were built.

Nortje’s Record-Breaking Performance

Nortje’s 4/7 surpassed his own previous best of 4/10 against Bangladesh in the 2022 T20 World Cup. With this performance, he now holds the best bowling figures for South Africa in T20 World Cups and has the most wickets by any bowler after their first 11 T20 World Cup games, maintaining a wicket in each match.

Nortje breaks his own record

As mentioned, Nortje’s 4/7 are now the best bowling figures for South Africa in the T20 World Cup. He broke his own record of taking 4/10 against Bangladesh in the 2022 edition in Sydney. Wayne Parnell (4/13 vs WI, The Oval, 2009) and Jacques Kallis (4/15 vs Zimbabwe, Hambantota, 2012) follow Nortje on this list.

Lowest totals for SL in T20Is
77 vs SA New York 2024 *
82 vs Ind Vizag 2016
87 vs Aus Bridgetown 2010
87 vs Ind Cuttack 2017
91 vs Eng Southampton 2021