South Africa comfortably chased down the target, finishing at 106 for 3. Opener Tony de Zorzi scored 41 runs, and Tristan Stubbs remained not out on 30.
Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada delivered an outstanding performance, claiming six wickets in the second innings as South Africa clinched a seven-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the first Test on Thursday. The match wrapped up before lunch on the fourth day at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.
South Africa successfully chased down the target, finishing at 106 for 3. Opener Tony de Zorzi made a valuable contribution of 41 runs, while Tristan Stubbs remained unbeaten on 30 to lead the team to victory.
Rabada made an early impact on the fourth day, finishing with impressive figures of 6 for 46. This performance was a significant milestone for him as he celebrated surpassing 300 Test wickets. Bangladesh was bowled out for 307 in their second innings, having established an 81-run lead the previous day. However, they faced a tough challenge with only three wickets remaining against the new ball.
South Africa’s bowlers swiftly dismantled Bangladesh’s tail, preventing Mehidy Hasan Miraz from reaching a century; he fell for 97 after edging a delivery from Rabada to Wiaan Mulder at third slip. This left South Africa with a manageable target and plenty of time to secure the win, which they achieved in just 22 overs.
Bangladesh’s Taijul Islam also had a commendable outing, claiming 3 for 43 to add to his five wickets in the first innings.
South Africa’s captain Aiden Markram reflected on the victory, stating, “It was a really good performance. We put together four days of solid cricket, and our bowlers set the tone beautifully from the start.”
Despite winning the toss and choosing to bat, Bangladesh faced difficulties on the opening day, crumbling to just 106 runs. This allowed South Africa to establish a significant 202-run lead in the first innings.
Markram recognized the challenges posed by Bangladesh, stating, “We had a substantial lead, but credit to Bangladesh for making it difficult for us in the second innings.”
The teams will meet again for the second Test in Chittagong, starting on Tuesday.
