Dhaka
South Africa has moved up to fourth place in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings following a seven-wicket win against Bangladesh in the first Test on Thursday. With this victory, the Proteas improved their point percentage to 47.62, surpassing New Zealand and England in the rankings. Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s point percentage dropped to 30.56, leaving them in seventh place, while India and Australia remain in the top two spots.
After winning the toss, Bangladesh opted to bat first, a decision that backfired as South Africa’s bowlers thrived in favorable conditions. Bangladesh was bowled out for just 106 runs, with Kagiso Rabada, Wiaan Mulder, and Keshav Maharaj each taking three wickets.
In response, South Africa’s batters, led by Kyle Verreynne’s resilient century, posted a total of 208 runs, with Mulder contributing 54 and Dane Piedt adding 32. This gave South Africa a commanding lead of 202 runs.
In Bangladesh’s second innings, they struggled again, with Rabada leading the attack and reducing them to 112/6. Mehidy Hasan fought back with a valiant 97, helping Bangladesh reach a total of 307. Rabada’s impressive bowling figures of 6/46 marked his best performance in Asia.
Chasing a target of 106, South Africa comfortably secured victory, guided by Tony de Zorzi’s 41 runs and Tristan Stubbs, who remained unbeaten on 30. The second Test between Bangladesh and South Africa is scheduled to take place on Tuesday in Chattogram.
