South Africa achieved a resounding victory over Bangladesh by an innings and 273 runs, thus sweeping the two-match Test series 2-0. Key performances from Kagiso Rabada and spinners Keshav Maharaj and Senuran Muthusamy propelled South Africa to a dominant position, as they dismissed Bangladesh for 143 runs in the second innings. Despite a commendable effort from Mominul Haque, Bangladesh’s batting collapse was reminiscent of their first Test loss. South Africa looks forward to upcoming matches that could enhance their prospects of reaching the World Test Championship final.
In a commanding performance, South Africa triumphed over Bangladesh by an innings and 273 runs, securing a clean sweep of the Test series with a 2-0 victory. The match concluded on the third day at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium, where South Africa, having enforced the follow-on, dismissed Bangladesh for a mere 143 runs in their second innings. Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada was the standout performer for South Africa, claiming five wickets and significantly contributing to Bangladesh’s struggles. In the first innings, South Africa bowled out the hosts for 159 after taking a substantial first-innings lead of 416 runs. Rabada’s exceptional bowling figures of 5 for 37 were complemented by Keshav Maharaj and Senuran Muthusamy, who claimed 5 for 59 and 4 for 45 respectively in the second innings. Bangladesh began the day on 38 for 4, needing a significant recovery. Although Mominul Haque’s commendable effort of 82 runs led a fightback from 48 for 8, Bangladesh was ultimately unable to withstand South Africa’s relentless bowling attack. The dismissal of Haque marked a turning point, as it ended a spirited partnership of 103 runs for the ninth wicket with Taijul Islam. The latter managed to score a defiant 30 runs before succumbing to Maharaj’s bowling. Despite fleeting contributions of 36 from Najmul Hossain Shanto and 29 from Mahidul Islam Ankon in the second innings, Bangladesh succumbed to pressure and was bowled out, with Hasan Mahmud remaining unbeaten on 38. The match showcased a notable performance from South Africa, intensifying their pursuit of a spot in the World Test Championship final, as they are set to face Sri Lanka and Pakistan in their upcoming home Tests later this month.
This Test series between South Africa and Bangladesh comprised two matches, with the second Test held in Chittagong being crucial for both teams. For South Africa, the series presented an opportunity to demonstrate their dominance in the format and solidify their standings within the World Test Championship rankings. Bangladesh, on the other hand, aimed to put forth a competitive performance on home soil, following their defeat in the first Test in Dhaka. The match reflected the disparities in bowling strength between the two sides, with South African bowlers exhibiting exceptional skill and composure throughout the series.
In summary, South Africa’s emphatic victory by an innings and 273 runs against Bangladesh in the second Test epitomizes their dominance in the series. With standout performances from Rabada and the spinners, the South African team not only showcased their talent but also reinforced their aspirations for the forthcoming World Test Championship final. The series concluded with Bangladesh facing significant challenges in their batting lineup, highlighting the need for improvement as they consider the lessons learned from this encounter.
Original Source: sportstar.thehindu.com
