Bangladesh Faces Imminent Defeat Against South Africa in Second Test
Bangladesh faced a probable innings defeat against South Africa after collapsing to 43 for 4, trailing by 373 runs at tea on day three of the second Test in Chattogram, having earlier been all out for 159 in their first innings. South Africa declared their first innings at 575 for 6, leading the two-match series 1-0. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto remained unbeaten at 13 as wickets fell rapidly, with Kagiso Rabada securing a five-wicket haul in both Tests.
On Thursday, during day three of the second Test in Chattogram, Bangladesh found themselves in dire straits, having collapsed to 43 for 4 and facing a probable innings defeat against South Africa, with a staggering 373-run deficit. The hosts had previously concluded their first innings at a modest total of 159 before being invited to bat again by the South African team, who had declared their first innings at a formidable 575 for 6, thereby leading the two-match series 1-0. Bangladesh’s batting lineup revealed profound vulnerability, especially under pressure from South African bowling. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto was the sole bastion of resistance at the crease, managing a mere 13 runs after Zakir Hasan fell victim to a stumping off Senuran Muthusamy just before the tea break, concluding his innings at seven runs. Dane Paterson initiated the unraveling by dismissing opener Shadman Islam for just six runs during his first over with a delivery that edged to wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne. The troubles compounded as Muthusamy, on his debut, caught Mahmudul Hasan Joy off his own delivery, dismissing him with an early wicket. The situation worsened when Keshav Maharaj effortlessly sent Mominul Haque, who had scored 82 runs in the first innings, back to the pavilion for a duck, reducing Bangladesh to 29 for 3. Rooted in difficulties, Bangladesh was quickly pushed to the brink, with their score dwindling to 48 for 8; however, a brief resurgence from Mominul provided some hope, though ultimately, the home side resumed their innings at 38 for 4. Unfortunately, Rabada struck decisively in the fourth over, effectively dismissing Najmul, who managed only nine runs, well caught by Verreynne. Mushfiqur Rahim contributed nothing to the scoreboard when Paterson induced him into a catch, leaving Bangladesh at 47 for 6. The situation deteriorated further as Rabada claimed two wickets in quick succession, dismissing Mehidy Hasan Miraz and the debuting Mahidul Islam Ankon, thereby securing his second five-wicket haul of the series, following his 6 for 46 in the first Test victory. In stark contrast, South Africa boasted three players achieving maiden Test centuries in their outstanding first innings total of 575, with De Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, and Wiaan Mulder shining in the limelight. The visitors aim to achieve a clean sweep of the two-match series, having already won the first Test by seven wickets, while Bangladesh has faced the unfortunate statistic of never having won a Test against South Africa in their previous 15 encounters.
This match plays a critical role in the narrative of the ongoing Test series between Bangladesh and South Africa. Bangladesh’s downfall in this innings exemplifies their struggle in the longest format of the game, particularly against formidable opponents like South Africa. The historical context reveals that Bangladesh has yet to secure a victory over South Africa in Test cricket, and their current performance indicates a continued challenge within this competitive framework. South Africa’s impressive inning showcases their powerful batting depth and strategic bowling prowess, positioning them as a dominant force in the series.
In conclusion, the ongoing Test match between Bangladesh and South Africa highlights the stark contrast between the two teams’ performances. With Bangladesh precariously situated at 43 for 4, facing imminent defeat, South Africa’s comprehensive innings underscored their dominance in the series. As the match progresses, Bangladesh will need to muster resilience to avoid an innings defeat and to improve their statistical record against South Africa in Test cricket.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
