South Africa achieved a resounding victory over Bangladesh by an innings and 273 runs, completing a 2-0 series sweep. The hosts, bowled out for 159 and 143, suffered their largest Test defeat by innings. Kagiso Rabada starred with five wickets, while three South African batsmen scored maiden Test centuries in their first innings. Bangladesh has yet to win a Test match against South Africa in 16 attempts.
In a commanding display of cricket, South Africa triumphed over Bangladesh by an innings and 273 runs, securing a clean sweep of the two-match Test series. The hosts faced significant challenges, collapsing to scores of 159 and 143 in their innings, establishing this match as South Africa’s largest victory margin in Test cricket history. After enforcing the follow-on, South Africa dispatched Bangladesh for just 143 runs on the third day of the second Test held in Chittagong, thereby sealing the series at 2-0. Kagiso Rabada was exemplary with the ball, claiming five wickets and playing a crucial role in dismantling the Bangladeshi batting lineup in both innings. In their initial innings, the hosts struggled to find stability, collapsing to 159 runs. Rabada opened the bowling with precision, accounting for key wickets including Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, contributing to Bangladesh’s woes and leaving them with a daunting 416-run deficit after South Africa declared their innings at an imposing 575-6. Bangladesh’s fleeting resistance was marked by Mominul Haque’s 82 runs, though it was not enough to avert their dismal fate. After a brief fightback later in the day, the side could only muster 143 runs in their second innings, rendered hopeless against the spin duo of Keshav Maharaj, who secured five wickets, and Senuran Muthusamy, who added four. South Africa’s bowlers were relentless, further intensifying the pressure on a side that has yet to record a Test victory against them in 16 encounters. This Test concluded a disappointing series for Bangladesh, who previously lost the first Test by seven wickets in Dhaka. South Africa’s performance not only showcased their superiority in the match but also their aspirations as they prepare for the upcoming World Test Championship fixtures against Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Players Tony de Zorzi (177), Tristan Stubbs (106), and Wiaan Mulder (105) all celebrated their maiden Test centuries during the first innings. De Zorzi was honored as the Player of the Match, while Rabada received the Player of the Series accolade.
The ongoing Test series between South Africa and Bangladesh has drawn significant attention, highlighting the contrasting fortunes of the participating teams. While South Africa has emerged as a formidable force in Test cricket, boasting a rich history and a robust cricketing infrastructure, Bangladesh has struggled to assert themselves on this platform since being granted Test status in 2000. The series offered Bangladesh an opportunity to improve, but they faced South Africa’s experienced squad, capable of punishing any weaknesses. South Africa’s consistency and strategic gameplay have underlined their position as a contender for future international tournaments, including the World Test Championship.
In summary, South Africa’s victory by an innings and 273 runs against Bangladesh not only demonstrates their cricketing dominance but also underscores the challenges faced by the Bangladeshi team in the longer format of the game. With this defeat, Bangladesh’s struggle against South Africa continues, reflecting the necessity for further development in their Test capabilities. South Africa, while celebrating this victory, turns its focus toward upcoming challenges in the World Test Championship, showcasing their commitment to maintaining high standards in international cricket.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
