Kagiso Rabada’s six-wicket haul propelled South Africa to a seven-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the first Test, concluded on Thursday. Bangladesh managed 307 runs, setting a target of 106 for South Africa, who achieved the win in just 22 overs with contributions from Tony de Zorzi and Tristan Stubbs. Rabada surpassed the 300 Test wickets milestone, cementing his role as a key player for South Africa.
In a resounding display of skill, South Africa triumphed over Bangladesh by seven wickets in the first Test, concluded on Thursday at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada was the standout performer, claiming six wickets in the second innings and achieving the milestone of 300 Test wickets. Bangladesh, having established an 81-run lead, struggled in their second innings and were dismissed for 307 runs. South Africa, needing 106 runs for victory, achieved this in just 22 overs, led by opener Tony de Zorzi’s 41 runs and an unbeaten 30 from Tristan Stubbs. Rabada’s performance was pivotal, particularly on the fourth day, where he concluded with remarkable figures of 6-46. Bangladesh’s lower order faltered against the potent bowling attack, with Mehidy Hasan Miraz falling just short of a century, managing 97 runs before being dismissed by Rabada. Despite Bangladesh’s Taijul Islam also impressing with a bowling figure of 3-43, South Africa’s initial lead from their first innings, where they had scored 308 runs to Bangladesh’s 106, solidified their win. South Africa’s captain Aiden Markram applauded the team’s consistent performance throughout the match, acknowledging the challenges posed by the Bangladesh side.
The match took place in Chittagong and was the first Test in a series between South Africa and Bangladesh. South Africa entered the match as strong contenders and managed to establish an overwhelming lead after Bangladesh’s dismal performance on the first day. The significance of Kagiso Rabada’s wicket haul highlights his status as one of the premier fast bowlers in international cricket, further emphasized by his milestone achievement of 300 Test wickets. The strategic shifts in momentum throughout the match underscore the competitive spirit of both teams.
In summary, South Africa showcased their cricketing prowess with a decisive victory over Bangladesh in the first Test, led by a stellar performance from Kagiso Rabada. The match not only highlighted Rabada’s skill and career achievement but also set the stage for the upcoming second Test, where both teams will seek to build on their performances. South Africa’s solid start to the series certainly places them in a favorable position moving forward.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
