Bangladesh finds itself in a precarious position at 43-4, facing a likely innings defeat against South Africa in the second Test. Following a significant deficit of 373 runs after South Africa’s substantial first innings total of 575-6, Bangladesh was bundled out for 159 in their response. Key players failed to deliver, exacerbating their troubles amid a dominant South African bowling attack led by Kagiso Rabada.
As the second Test between Bangladesh and South Africa progressed on Thursday in Chattogram, Bangladesh found themselves in dire straits at 43-4, facing a looming innings defeat with a significant deficit of 373 runs. After South Africa declared their first innings at 575-6, the hosts struggled, being dismissed for just 159 runs in their response. Bangladesh’s captain, Najmul Hossain Shanto, managed to remain at the crease on 13 runs, following the dismissal of several key players, including Zakir Hasan, who was stumped off Senuran Muthusamy’s bowling for just seven runs. Dane Paterson made an immediate impact, sending opener Shadman Islam back to the pavilion for six runs before Muthusamy also captured Mahmudul Hasan Joy’s wicket with a delivery that resulted in a catch at slip. Keshav Maharaj further compounded Bangladesh’s woes by dismissing Mominul Haque, who had performed well in the first innings, scoring 82 runs, this time out without contributing to the score. Kagiso Rabada showcased his prowess, concluding the first innings with impressive bowling figures of 5-37. On day three, Bangladesh’s response faltered alarmingly, plummeting to 48-8 before a brief resurgence by Mominul. The team resumed their innings at 38-4, but Rabada struck early, dismissing Najmul through a deft edge to the wicketkeeper. Mushfiqur Rahim followed soon after without scoring, caught in a simple dismissal off Paterson’s delivery. Rabada’s further onslaught saw the wickets fall quickly, ensuring he achieved his second five-wicket haul of the series. South Africa’s first innings included remarkable performances, with three batsmen—Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, and Wiaan Mulder—achieving their maiden Test centuries. The visitors are on the verge of a series sweep after winning the first Test by a margin of seven wickets, continuing their dominant record against Bangladesh, which has yet to secure a Test victory against them over 15 encounters.
The article centers on the ongoing second Test match between Bangladesh and South Africa, highlighting Bangladesh’s disappointing performance and their struggle to stay competitive. South Africa set a formidable target with a first innings total of 575 runs and has a strong position in the match, leading 1-0 in the two-match series. The narrative underscores Bangladesh’s historical struggles against South Africa in Test cricket, providing context to the current match situation and Bangladesh’s difficulties.
In summary, Bangladesh is confronting a substantial challenge in their second Test against South Africa, teetering at 43-4 and facing a likely innings defeat with a considerable deficit. Their batting struggles against a dominant South African bowling attack have rendered them vulnerable and under pressure. As the visitors eye a series sweep, the match holds significant implications for Bangladesh as they seek to improve their Test performance against a formidable opponent.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
