Sri Lanka won the third one-day international (ODI) against South Africa by 78 runs, thereby winning the series 2-1. Sri Lanka batted first and scored 203 runs, with South Africa's spin bowlers, particularly Keshav Maharaj, playing a crucial role in restricting their opponents. In response, South Africa struggled to get going, losing wickets at regular intervals. Despite some resistance from their lower order, they were eventually bowled out for 125 runs. The Sri Lankan team's bowling and fielding were instrumental in their victory, with several players making key contributions, including debutant Maheesh Theekshana, who took four wickets. The win marked Sri Lanka's first ODI series victory at home in 18 months.
Here are the key facts from the text:
1. The third one-day international between Sri Lanka and South Africa took place at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
2. Dasun Shanaka won the toss and decided to bat first for Sri Lanka.
3. South Africa's team was unchanged for the match.
4. Sri Lanka made three changes to their team, with Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, and Mahesh Theekshana joining the lineup.
5. Abhishek Fernando was dismissed for 10 runs, with the decision reviewed and overturned by the umpires.
6. Keshav Maharaj took two wickets for South Africa, with the second wicket being reviewed and confirmed by the umpires.
7. Heinrich Klaasen took a diving catch to dismiss Chandimal for 9 runs.
8. Tabraiz Shamsi took a wicket, but the decision was reviewed and confirmed by the umpires.
9. The Sri Lankan team was bowled out for 203 runs.
10. South Africa's team was bowled out for 125 runs, with Sri Lanka winning the match by 78 runs.
11. Sri Lanka won the series 2-1, sealing the win in the third match.
12. Mahesh Theekshana took 4 wickets on his debut for Sri Lanka.
13. This was Sri Lanka's first series win in 18 months.