Proteas End Asia Drought with Dominant Victory Over Bangladesh
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24Oct, 2024
South Africa secured a commanding seven-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the first Test, claiming their first win in Asia since 2014 and taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. The Proteas displayed resilience and skill on a subcontinental pitch that tested their mettle throughout the match.
Day 4 began with South Africa's bowlers in complete control. Bangladesh, resuming at 283/7, added only 24 more runs before being bowled out for 307. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who had been the standout for Bangladesh with an unbeaten 87 at the end of Day 3, fell agonizingly short of his century, adding just 10 more runs to his total. Kagiso Rabada and Wiaan Mulder quickly wrapped up the Bangladesh innings, taking three wickets between them to set South Africa a modest target of 106 runs to win.
Despite the small chase, South Africa didn't have it all their way. In their eagerness to finish the match quickly, the Proteas lost three wickets, but Tristan Stubbs and Ryan Rickleton steadied the innings and guided South Africa to a comfortable win. This victory ended the Proteas’ nearly decade-long drought of Test wins in Asia, making it a significant achievement for the team.
The foundation of this triumph was laid in the first innings when Bangladesh, after winning the toss and opting to bat, struggled against the South African attack. On a seamer-friendly pitch, Rabada, Mulder, and Keshav Maharaj each picked up three wickets, dismantling the hosts for a meager 106 runs. Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto's decision to bat first quickly backfired as the Proteas’ bowlers exploited the conditions perfectly.
South Africa faced their own struggles in response, finding themselves at 108/6 at one point. However, Kyle Verreynne and Wiaan Mulder came to the rescue with a vital partnership that swung the momentum in the Proteas' favor. Verreynne, with a gritty century, and Mulder, who scored his first half-century, helped South Africa build a significant 202-run lead. Verreynne's century was instrumental and earned him the Player of the Match award.
Rabada continued to shine with the ball, putting Bangladesh on the back foot with his disciplined and aggressive bowling. His effort, combined with Mulder's all-round performance, ensured that the Proteas remained in control throughout the Test.
This comprehensive win not only puts South Africa in a strong position in the series but also boosts their confidence as they return to winning ways in Asian conditions after nearly a decade.
[Submitted by Estea Rademeyer]