As feared since yesterday afternoon, Bangladesh was unable to avoid the follow-on, bowled out for a total of 159 despite a spirited resistance from Mominul Haque and Taijul Islam.
Yesterday, South Africa declared their innings at a commanding 575 for 6 wickets. When Bangladesh began batting later in the evening, the hosts quickly lost four wickets. Openers Shadman Islam and Zakir Hasan, as well as No. 3 Mahmudul Hasan Joy and No. 5 nightwatchman Hasan Mahmud, were dismissed, with only Joy reaching double digits. Bangladesh closed the day at 38 for 4 wickets.
The batting struggles continued into this morning. In the fourth over of the day, Najmul Hossain Shanto was dismissed, and Bangladesh soon found themselves in deeper trouble after losing Mushfiqur Rahim, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and debutant Mahidul Ankan for scores of 0, 1, and 0, respectively, reducing them to a precarious 48 for 8 wickets.
The grim prospect of failing to reach even double figures was averted by a resilient ninth-wicket stand between Mominul Haque and Taijul Islam, who added a valuable 103 runs together. This partnership carried Bangladesh to the lunch break, offering a brief respite.
Shortly after lunch, however, Mominul Haque was dismissed by Senuran Muthusamy for a fighting 82 when the team’s score was 151. Bangladesh’s innings concluded at 159 when Taijul Islam was caught off a return catch by Keshav Maharaj.
Currently, Bangladesh trails by 416 runs, confirming they could not avoid the follow-on and will soon take the field for their second innings.
