Bangladesh reached 101-3 at stumps, needing 101 more runs to avoid defeat as they struggle against South Africa’s 308 in the first Test match. Mahmudul Hasan Joy (38) and Mushfiqur Rahim (31) remained not out, with Mushfiqur crossing 6,000 Test runs. Bangladesh’s early collapse, losing two wickets to Kagiso Rabada, puts them under pressure. South Africa’s first innings was bolstered by Kyle Verreynne’s century and historical milestones were achieved by both teams’ players.
In a tense scenario during the first Test against South Africa, Bangladesh concluded Day 3 at 101-3, finding themselves in precarious conditions as they require an additional 101 runs to evade an innings defeat. Within a challenging batting performance on Tuesday, Mahmudul Hasan Joy (38) and Mushfiqur Rahim (31) remained not out at the close of play in Mirpur. Their partnership of 42 runs for the fourth wicket marked a milestone for Mushfiqur, as he became the first Bangladeshi player to surpass 6,000 career Test runs. Bangladesh faced early adversity, losing two quick wickets to the pace of Kagiso Rabada while chasing South Africa’s total of 308, which afforded them a commanding 202-run lead. Shadman Islam departed early, caught at short leg for a solitary run, with Mominul Haque following shortly after for a duck, leaving the home side precariously placed at 19-2 before the tea break. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto could only muster 23 runs off 49 balls before being dismissed lbw by Keshav Maharaj. The day could have concluded with an additional wicket when Mahmudul attempted a reckless shot that nearly led to a stumping. In South Africa’s first innings, wicketkeeper-batsman Kyle Verreynne scored a commendable century, concluding his innings at 114 runs which included eight fours and two sixes. He built a formidable seventh-wicket partnership of 119 runs with Wiaan Mulder, who contributed 54 runs, significantly lifting South Africa’s score after resuming at 140-6. Dane Piedt, who scored 32 runs, aided Verreynne with a vital 66-run stand for the ninth wicket. Bangladesh’s Hasan Mahmud stood out as he struck twice in quick succession during the morning session, finishing with figures of 3-66, while Mehidy Hasan Miraz supported with 2-63 as South Africa’s innings folded. Rabada, having crossed the milestone of 300 Test wickets, did so in record time, becoming the fastest in this regard, surpassing Waqar Younis. Moreover, Taijul Islam reached 200 Test wickets, joining the ranks of Bangladesh’s bowling elite alongside Shakib Al Hasan. Notably, Bangladesh has yet to secure a victory over South Africa in Test cricket, with the subsequent match scheduled to commence on October 29 in Chattogram.
The first Test between Bangladesh and South Africa is currently underway, showcasing a significant competitive dynamic given past encounters. Historically, Bangladesh has faced challenges against top-tier teams like South Africa, highlighting the importance of this match in their quest for improvement in the Test format. With the series being played in Mirpur and then transitioning to Chattogram, the results could influence the trajectory of cricket in Bangladesh and South Africa’s standing in international Test cricket. Additionally, key individual milestones, notably for players such as Mushfiqur Rahim, contribute to the narrative of the match.
As Bangladesh battles to defend against potential innings defeat in the first Test against South Africa, they find themselves at a critical juncture. The performance of their key players will be paramount as they strive to reach the target and redeem their standing in the match. With historical challenges against South Africa, each innings is crucial for Bangladesh, particularly as they approach the next Test in Chattogram. The achievements of players like Mushfiqur Rahim are noteworthy, and the progression of key bowlers like Hasan Mahmud offers glimmers of hope amidst the struggle.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
