In a historic display of dominance, South Africa secured their largest innings victory ever, defeating Bangladesh by an astonishing 273 runs in Chattogram. South Africa’s victory was their first series win in the subcontinent in ten years, and it was also their first series sweep in Asia since 2008. With this emphatic triumph, they climbed to fourth place in the World Test Championship (WTC) points table, solidifying their path to potentially qualifying for the WTC final by needing to win at least three of their upcoming four home Tests this summer.
The outstanding performances of South Africa’s batsmen drove their innings total of 575 for 6. With a brilliant 177 runs, Tony de Zorzi spearheaded the attack, helped along by centuries from Wiaan Mulder (105*) and Tristan Stubbs (106). On the third day, the bowling attack demonstrated their strength by taking 16 wickets, including two five-wicket hauls from Keshav Maharaj and Kagiso Rabada. Senuran Muthusamy, an all-rounder who bowls spin, also had a strong showing, taking a career-high 4 for 45 in the second innings.
Bangladesh’s batting problems are still plaguing the team. Mahmud scored the most runs (38), but their first innings collapsed to just 143. Poor shot selection throughout the innings, especially against the spinners, left the batting order in disarray. Their precarious position at 48 for 8 was a notable low point, but Mominul Haque and Taijul Islam’s valiant 103-run partnership at the ninth wicket saved them from one of their lowest Test cricket totals.
Also Read: Aussie Coach Dismissed as Selector, Former Umpire Takes the Helm—Welcome to Pakistan Cricket!
Even Mominul’s heroic 82-run second-inning effort was insufficient to change the tide. With their best partnership in the second innings being just 37 runs, Bangladesh’s batting lineup showed a worrying lack of unity and was unable to form meaningful partnerships. Rabada’s incisive bowling in the first innings caused captain Najmul Hossain Shanto to be dismissed without scoring, encapsulating the team’s difficulties.
Rabada took 5 for 37 in the second innings, demonstrating his skill with the ball once more. Paterson (2 for 31) and Maharaj (2 for 57) provided him with strong support as his early breakthroughs left Bangladesh reeling. After a thorough review, Muthusamy’s introduction into the attack further demolished the Bangladeshi batting by taking crucial wickets, including Mominul, who was declared leg before wicket.
South Africa won the match before the fourth day could start, with Bangladesh’s second innings ending at just 159 runs despite a few fleeting moments of resistance.
