CHITTAGONG, Bangladesh – Bangladesh spinner Taijul Islam expressed his unwavering determination on Monday to level the series against South Africa in the second and final Test, following a disappointing seven-wicket defeat in the opening match.
South Africa has maintained a flawless record against Bangladesh in Test cricket, winning all 15 encounters between the two nations. As they head into this match, the South African team is aiming for a clean sweep in the series to boost their position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings.
“Our sole objective is to win this match,” Taijul stated, addressing the media on the eve of the Test in Chattogram, known for its traditionally batting-friendly pitch. “It doesn’t matter whether we are batting, bowling, or fielding; we must operate as a cohesive unit,” emphasized the 32-year-old spinner, who notably claimed eight wickets in the first Test at Mirpur.
Historically, Bangladesh has faced challenges in Chattogram, having played 24 Tests at the venue but managing to secure victory in just two of those matches, with seven ending in draws—the highest number of draws at any single venue for the team. Currently, South Africa sits fifth in the WTC rankings, while Bangladesh finds itself languishing in eighth place.
Taijul shared his thoughts on the key to success for Bangladesh in the upcoming match, suggesting that forming two or three solid partnerships could be crucial. “If one or two batsmen can reach centuries, or if a couple of players can score fifties, we can set a more substantial total,” he noted, highlighting the importance of teamwork in achieving their goals.
Addressing speculation about a potential leadership change following this Test, with reports suggesting he might replace captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, Taijul stated that he would gladly accept the responsibility if the opportunity arose. “I’ve been playing for 10 years, and I’m ready for whatever comes my way,” he asserted.
In preparation for the match, Bangladesh made two adjustments to their squad, bringing in right-arm pacer Khaled Ahmed to replace Taskin Ahmed and introducing uncapped wicketkeeper Mahidul Islam Ankon to take the place of Jaker Ali, who made his debut in the first Test.
Aiming for Consecutive Wins
South Africa’s stand-in captain, Aiden Markram, reflected on the significance of their victory in Mirpur, which ended a decade-long drought for the team in South Asia. “It’s definitely relieving,” he acknowledged, emphasizing the importance of consistency in performance. “Good teams find ways to win consecutively, and that’s been our focus heading into this Test match,” Markram stated during a press briefing. He expressed optimism for another strong performance from his side.
Kagiso Rabada emerged as a standout performer in the first match, finishing with nine wickets and achieving the remarkable feat of becoming the fastest bowler to reach 300 Test wickets. Additionally, wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne made significant contributions with the bat, scoring a century that bolstered the team’s total.
Markram is leading the South African squad in the absence of regular captain Temba Bavuma, who is sidelined due to a muscle injury. “It is always an honor and privilege to captain your country, especially in a Test match, and I have thoroughly enjoyed this experience,” he remarked, but he was quick to credit his teammates for their role in the team’s success. “The players make the difference,” he pointed out, highlighting the collective effort that led to their victory in the first Test.
Markram reiterated the importance of maintaining their momentum, stating, “We had several players who stepped up in the first Test match, putting us in a great position to win. Our focus remains the same as we approach this Test.”
As both teams gear up for this crucial encounter in Chattogram, fans eagerly await to see if Bangladesh can level the series or if South Africa will continue their dominance in this thrilling contest.
