South Africa v Sri Lanka ODIs: Five reasons why South Africa failed

4) Inaccurate bowling and sub-standard fielding

If there is one thing that is synonymous with every South African side that has played since their readmission to international cricket, it has been their discipline.

Sadly, South African pace spearhead Morne Morkel sprayed the ball on both sides of the wicket and was followed in this regard by all his fellow bowlers.

South Africa ended up with close to 60 wides in the series as compared to only 15 from Sri Lanka, which in itself tells a story of lack of discipline.

Add to this, chances missed of Tharanga, Jayawardene, Sangakkara and Thirimanne and you have a deluge of missed opportunities. The fielding was also not up to the mark in most of the ODIs with throws being off target, no visible backing up and simple mistakes being committed on the field.