Rabada ‘s Six-for Powers’ powers South Africa to seven-wicket win over Bangladesh in first Test

Starting the final day with 283/7, Bangladesh added just 24 more runs before that Rabada got his fifth wicket by dismissing Nayeem Hasan lbw in the first over. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who showed determination with a fighting 97, was the last to fall, cutting a catch to Wiaan Mulder at third slip, dismissing Bangladesh. Rabada’s heroics were well complemented by Wiaan Mulder and Keshav Maharaj, who provided crucial support in both innings.

South Africa, aware of the impending threat of rain, positively joined the chase. Aiden Markram and Tony de Zorzi quickly set the tone and the captain set the boundaries early on. Despite losing Markram and de Zorzi to Taijul Islam, South Africa stayed the course. Tristan Stubbs and David Bedingham bowled confidently, with Stubbs ending the match with an unbeaten 30, sealing victory in just 22 overs.

Bangladesh’s first innings fell apart as Rabada, Mulder and Maharaj took quick wickets, bundling the hosts out for just 106. South Africa found themselves in early trouble at 108/6, but were rescued by Kyle Verreynne’s magnificent 114 and Mulder’s half-century. Their total of 308 runs ensured a substantial lead in the first innings. Although Mehidy and Jaker Ali put on a record partnership for Bangladesh in the second innings, Rabada’s match-winning spell ensured they were left with too much work to do.

South Africa’s clinical performance, led by Rabada, gives them a 1-0 lead in the two-match series and marks their first Test win in Asia since 2014.