South Africa made a disastrous start to their first innings on Friday’s second day of the deciding Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo.

After the home side were dismissed for an imposing 421 during the post-lunch session, South Africa were 2-23 at tea with both opening batsmen back in the pavilion.

Alviro Petersen was caught-and-bowled by Rangana Herath for two to make it 1-3 and was quickly followed by Dean Elgar, caught by Kaushal Silva off Dilruwan Perera’s bowling for one, putting the tourists at a precarious 2-13.

At tea, Faf du Plessis was not out 17 with skipper Hashim Amla was on two.

Earlier, the soon-to-retire Mahela Jayawardene hit 165 including 17 fours and a six during his nearly eight-hour stay at the wicket, laying down the foundation for a strong Sri Lankan first-innings total.

He was well supported by Test debutant Niroshan Dickwella who made 72 and captain Angelo Mathews with 63.

South Africa lead the two-Test series 1-0 after winning the opener in Galle by 153 runs.