South Africa vs Sri Lanka 2017, 1st ODI: Five talking points

#3 Amla finds some much-needed form

Amla was at his stroke making best

Hashim Amla was a concern for the South Africans in the Test series before he smashed a ton in his hundredth Test. But if that was not proof enough of his form, Amla played some pleasing shots in the first ODI to register a half-century.

De Kock and Amla were under no pressure, chasing a meagre total and raced past fifty, before de Kock was dismissed for 34 with the partnership at 71. du Plessis gave Amla company as the latter reached a well compiled fifty.

Going into the Champions Trophy the form of Amla and de Kock will be crucial for the South Africans. The former was harsh on the Lankan spinners as he thrashed Vandersay and Sandakan to the fence on numerous occasions.