A dominant display of fast bowling from Kagiso Rabada led South Africa to a resounding seven-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the first Test match, played in Dhaka. The Proteas now hold a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. Rabada’s brilliance was on full display as he ripped through the Bangladesh batting order, claiming an impressive six wickets for a mere 39 runs. This performance marked his 15th five-wicket haul in Test cricket, a testament to his consistent brilliance in the longest format of the game.
South Africa’s victory was built on a strong foundation laid in the first innings. After Bangladesh was bowled out for a paltry 106, South Africa responded with a commanding 308, building a 202-run lead. In the second innings, Bangladesh showed more resilience but ultimately fell short. Despite a determined effort, they were bowled out for 307, leaving South Africa with a modest target of 106 to chase for victory.
Resuming the day on 283-7, Bangladesh was still 81 runs ahead, but the momentum shifted dramatically when Rabada and Wiaan Mulder took the new ball. Rabada struck early, trapping Nayeem Hasan lbw for his overnight score of 16. This dismissal cemented Rabada’s five-wicket haul, further showcasing his dominance.
South Africa’s chase was largely uneventful, reaching the target of 106-3 in 22 overs just before lunch on Day 4. Taijul Islam, who had impressed in the first innings with a five-wicket haul, was the only Bangladesh bowler to pick up three wickets in the second innings, but it was not enough to prevent South Africa’s victory.
The second and final Test of the series will be played at Chattogram, starting next Tuesday. With South Africa brimming with confidence after this emphatic victory, it will be interesting to see if Bangladesh can bounce back and level the series.