South Africa require just 106 runs to win the first Test against Bangladesh after dismissing them for 307 in their second innings on day four in Mirpur. South Africa wrapped up Bangladesh’s remaining three wickets in just 4.5 overs on the morning of day four, limiting their hosts to an overnight score addition of only 24 runs. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who fought valiantly, fell agonisingly short of his second Test century, dismissed for 97 by Kagiso Rabada.
Bad light had cut day three short, with South Africa opting to bowl spin with the old ball instead of taking the new one. However, Rabada wasted no time on day four, striking with his third delivery to remove Nayeem Hasan, earning his 15th Test five-wicket haul. The match has been a landmark for Rabada, who also crossed the 300-wicket milestone.
Mehidy attempted to accelerate, reaching the nineties with a boundary off Wiaan Mulder. However, his hopes of a century were dashed when Rabada tempted him into a ramp shot, only for Mehidy to edge a catch to slip. Rabada finished with figures of 6 for 46.
Despite South Africa’s dominance, Bangladesh managed to push the target just over 100 runs, giving themselves a glimmer of hope. On a pitch offering both bounce and spin, Bangladesh will aim to make South Africa work hard for the 106 runs needed for victory, hoping to defend their slim lead.