Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Jaker Ali’s crucial half-centuries propelled Bangladesh to an 81-run lead over South Africa, concluding day three of the first Test at 283-7. Bangladesh’s spin bowling coach expressed optimism for their first Test win against South Africa, emphasizing the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. The match will continue on October 29 in Chattogram.
In an intense third day of play, Bangladesh’s hopes for their inaugural Test victory against South Africa were buoyed by significant contributions from Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Jaker Ali. Both players notched half-centuries, propelling Bangladesh to a commendable position with an 81-run lead over their opponents. As play concluded prematurely due to insufficient light, the home team stood at 283-7, with Miraz on 87 and Nayeem Hasan at 16. The Bangladesh spin bowling coach, Mushtaq Ahmed, expressed optimism regarding his team’s chances of achieving a historic win, emphasizing the need for consistent batting and a robust display on the field. He stated, “We have to bat as long as we can, score consistently, and get whatever lead we can. When we can start believing, we can come back and we fight. When you don’t give up, the opposition also respects you.” The day was characterized by occasional interruptions, including a rain delay that restricted play to less than 58 overs. Notably, the partnership between Miraz and debutant Jaker, which yielded 138 runs for the seventh wicket, was crucial in averting a potential innings defeat. Jaker eventually fell to left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, who remarked on Bangladesh’s improving conditions but maintained that South Africa remained in a favorable position. Earlier in the day, South African bowler Kagiso Rabada capitalized on the overcast sky, capturing two wickets in quick succession, while Bangladesh struggled in response to South Africa’s first innings total of 308, which included a century from Kyle Verreynne. Bangladesh, which suffered a collapse on the first day to a mere 106 all out, aims for redemption. The series will continue with the second Test scheduled for October 29 in Chattogram.
The ongoing Test series between Bangladesh and South Africa has significant implications, particularly as Bangladesh seeks their first-ever victory against South Africa in Test cricket. The backdrop includes a historical context where Bangladesh has encountered difficulties in performing against South Africa in previous Test outings. In the first Test match, Bangladesh faced a dismal start, managing only 106 runs in their initial innings, which positioned them in a challenging spot given South Africa’s total of 308. The performance of emerging players like Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Jaker Ali becomes critical in this framework as the team endeavors to shift momentum in their favor, further highlighting their potential to build a competitive side going forward.
Bangladesh’s resilient performance on day three of the first Test against South Africa instilled a sense of hope as they build a lead of 81 runs. With vital contributions from Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Jaker Ali, the team demonstrated the capability to challenge their historic rivals. Despite past struggles against South Africa, the comments from Mushtaq Ahmed underline a focus on continuous improvement and self-belief, essential factors for achieving their first Test victory against this formidable opponent. As the series progresses, Bangladesh’s performance will be closely scrutinized as they aim to leverage this momentum to secure a landmark win.
Original Source: sports.ndtv.com
