Mulder and Rabada Rip Through Bangladesh’s Top Order – A Tough Day for the Hosts
In a thrilling display of fast bowling, South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada and Wiaan Mulder left Bangladesh’s top order in disarray during the opening session of Day 1 at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. Electing to bat first, Bangladesh found themselves at 60 for 6 by lunch, with Mulder and Rabada combining for a devastating performance.
Bangladesh’s Struggles Begin Early
Bangladesh’s decision to bat on a wicket offering early movement soon backfired, as Mulder, with his exceptional swing bowling, ripped through the top order in the first hour. The hosts, adopting a cautious approach, struggled to handle the movement on offer.
Mulder struck early, removing Shadman Islam in just the second over. Shadman, attempting an expansive drive, ended up edging the ball to the wicketkeeper. Mominul Haque and Najmul Hossain Shanto soon followed, both falling to Mulder’s testing deliveries. At 21 for 3 within 30 minutes, Bangladesh’s innings was in deep trouble.
Rabada Joins the Party
Mahmudul Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim offered some resistance, hitting a few boundaries and attempting to steady the collapse. But Rabada’s return for his second spell proved to be a game-changer. He breached Mushfiqur’s defense with a delivery that nipped in, marking his 300th Test wicket, a landmark reached quicker than anyone in history by number of balls bowled.
Rabada wasn’t done yet. He soon had Litton Das, with Tristan Stubbs pulling off a stunning catch at gully to send Das back. At 45 for 5, Bangladesh’s hopes of posting a respectable first-innings total were fading fast.
A Glimmer of Hope Before Another Blow
As the session neared its end, Mahmudul, who showed great resilience amidst the carnage, found some support from Mehidy Hasan. The pair looked set to carry Bangladesh safely to lunch. However, Keshav Maharaj struck in the final over, trapping Mehidy leg-before, a decision that stood even after review. Bangladesh went to lunch in tatters at 60 for 6, with Mulder and Rabada inflicting heavy damage.
What Lies Ahead?
South Africa’s dominance in the opening session has set the stage for a tough uphill battle for Bangladesh. Mulder’s figures of 3-22 and Rabada’s 2-16 demonstrate how lethal their pace attack can be, especially in favorable conditions.
For Bangladesh, Mahmudul Hasan remains the lone ray of hope as they look to build a respectable total. However, with just four wickets remaining, and South Africa’s bowlers in fine form, the path ahead looks treacherous.
Reference from: -https://www.cricbuzz.com/cricket-news/132134/mulder-rabada-leave-bangladesh-in-shambles