Bangladesh faced South Africa in the first Test, ending day one at 101 for 3 and needing 101 more runs to avoid an innings defeat. South Africa had posted 308 in their first innings, powered by Kyle Verreynne’s century. Key performances from both teams marked the day’s play as Bangladesh fought to maintain their stance in the match.
In a tense first Test against South Africa, Bangladesh fought to stave off an innings defeat, finishing the day at 101 for 3 on Tuesday. They require an additional 101 runs to avoid a loss, with Mahmudul Hasan Joy (38) and Mushfiqur Rahim (31) holding firm at stumps in Mirpur. Rahim’s performance marked a milestone, making him the first Bangladeshi player to achieve 6,000 career Test runs. South Africa, buoyed by Kyle Verreynne’s remarkable century, posted 308 in their first innings, resulting in a substantial 202-run lead. Verreynne, who scored 114 from 144 balls, noted the extreme conditions he faced while batting, stating, “It is probably the toughest conditions I have played under in terms of heat and humidity.” He highlighted the difficulty in adjusting against spin bowlers, saying, “Ninety percent of that innings was just against spin. Things happen quickly. You don’t have much time to reset from a concentration point of view. This was certainly my most rewarding innings.” Bangladesh’s response was shaky from the start, losing two wickets early to fast bowler Kagiso Rabada, with Shadman Islam caught for just one run, followed quickly by Mominul Haque’s edged dismissal for a duck. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto fell victim to Keshav Maharaj’s lbw after scoring only 23 runs. As day one concluded, the hosts were precariously positioned, almost losing another wicket in a last-ditch effort from Mahmudul. The South African innings had been significantly bolstered by the seventh-wicket partnership of Verreynne and Wiaan Mulder, who contributed a commendable 119 runs together. Mulder himself scored 54 runs. Additionally, Dane Piedt added 32 runs, featuring in a 66-run partnership with Verreynne for the ninth wicket. Bangladesh bowlers showed some resistance, with Hasan Mahmud claiming two wickets in two deliveries in the 65th over, albeit amidst a challenging morning session where South Africa amassed 103 runs. Hasan, with figures of 3 for 66, commented on the challenges of Test cricket, stating, “In those situations, the focus for bowlers shifts to containing the flow of runs and building pressure on the batsmen. It’s all about sticking to the basics.” South Africa’s Rabada reached a remarkable milestone of 300 Test wickets faster than any bowler in history, while Taijul Islam achieved his 200th Test wicket, becoming only the second Bangladeshi to do so after Shakib Al Hasan. Historically, Bangladesh has yet to secure a Test victory against South Africa, a challenge that continues as the second match of the two-Test series is scheduled to commence in Chattogram on October 29.
This article discusses the ongoing Test match between Bangladesh and South Africa, highlighting the performances and critical moments during the first day of play. South Africa posted a significant first-innings score, largely due to Kyle Verreynne’s outstanding century under challenging conditions. Bangladesh’s efforts to respond effectively in pursuit of avoiding an innings defeat are duly noted, as well as the individual milestones achieved during the match.
The first Test between Bangladesh and South Africa has showcased both challenges and achievements, with Bangladesh struggling to prevent an innings defeat while attempting to build a competitive score in their second innings. Kyle Verreynne’s innings, along with strategic partnerships within the South African team, set the stage for a crucial second day of play. Bangladesh’s bowlers are also recognized for their efforts amid the adversity faced, while notable milestones enhance the competitive nature of the match. The upcoming second Test promises further excitement as Bangladesh seeks its inaugural win against South Africa in Test cricket.
Original Source: sports.ndtv.com
