The 34-year-old spin wizard picked up a match haul of 10-172 as South Africa were thrashed by an innings and 153 runs to concede the lead in the two-match series.

Muralitharan grabbed 6-131 as the tourists, 587 runs behind on the first innings, were bowled out for 434 in their second knock after lunch on the fifth day at the Sinhalese sports club.

“There is no doubt in my mind that Murali is the greatest spinner ever. These were difficult conditions to bowl in. It was very hot and humid and the wicket was getting slower, slower and slower as the match progressed. I am certain he would have been named man of the match if I had not got that big score or the record stand, " he added.

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