“A Test win never comes easy, you still have to earn it,” said Proteas Test captain, Quinton de Kock, after the Proteas trumped Sri Lanka by an innings and 45 runs in the first of the two-Test series between the two teams. 

Pleased with the batting performance, de Kock showered praise on openers Dean Elgar and Aiden Markram for setting up the foundation for the rest of the batting order on what was “quite a difficult wicket.”

The Proteas were put under pressure after losing three quick wickets, only to be anchored by senior statesman, Faf du Plessis’ highest Test score of 199, which placed the Proteas in a dominant position, with 621 runs on the board.

“No better person in the team to handle it (pressure),” said De Kock. Emphasizing the importance of finding a balance between experienced players and youngsters, de Kock said du Plessis “showed his leadership out there.” 

De Kock was also impressed with Lutho Sipamla, whose inconsistency on the first day was a product of nerves. After a disappointing first day, it was “great to see his fight,” stated De Kock. Similarly impressive was Wiaan Mulder, who de Kock said “bowled with maturity and batted with intent.” 

Given this Test was De Kock’s first game as captain in long-form cricket, he found it “a little bit easier” because he had more time to think. Additionally, the presence of numerous leaders in the team such as Rassie van der Dussen, Temba Bavuma, and Faf du Plessis helped. 

On the other hand, Sri Lankan captain, Dimuth Karunaratne is grappling with injuries to multiple players in his squad. “It’s not easy, but as a captain, I am trying to keep the team together,” he said.