Centurion - Sri Lankan wicketkeeper Kaushal Silva admitted his team had struggled on the lively SuperSport Park wicket but said they had to learn to adapt to all playing conditions.
Scorecard after Day 1
Video highlights: SA v Sri Lanka, 1st Test Day 1
Sri Lanka were dismissed for 180 on Day 1 of the first Test here, while South Africa finished on 90 for the loss of only captain Graeme Smith's wicket.
“It was a hard task for us to bat on this wicket and (Vernon) Philander bowled well in conditions which suited him,” said Silva.
“We batted better after lunch but losing those three quick wickets was the turning point for us.”
Commenting on Tillakaratne Dilshan’s dismissal, Silva said his captain was just playing his natural game. Dilshan went early off Dale Steyn for six runs.
“Sometimes it works to our advantage, because if it comes off, then we score really quickly but today he was not so lucky.”
While the Sri Lankans were disappointed with their batting display, Silva said they would put it behind them and come out fighting on Friday.
“We need to forget about today and start afresh tomorrow,” he said.
“In the last few overs we bowled really well and the first session tomorrow morning will be key for us.”
Scorecard after Day 1
Video highlights: SA v Sri Lanka, 1st Test Day 1
Sri Lanka were dismissed for 180 on Day 1 of the first Test here, while South Africa finished on 90 for the loss of only captain Graeme Smith's wicket.
“It was a hard task for us to bat on this wicket and (Vernon) Philander bowled well in conditions which suited him,” said Silva.
“We batted better after lunch but losing those three quick wickets was the turning point for us.”
Commenting on Tillakaratne Dilshan’s dismissal, Silva said his captain was just playing his natural game. Dilshan went early off Dale Steyn for six runs.
“Sometimes it works to our advantage, because if it comes off, then we score really quickly but today he was not so lucky.”
While the Sri Lankans were disappointed with their batting display, Silva said they would put it behind them and come out fighting on Friday.
“We need to forget about today and start afresh tomorrow,” he said.
“In the last few overs we bowled really well and the first session tomorrow morning will be key for us.”