South Africa vs. Bangladesh: Battle for the WTC Final
South Africa is on a mission to secure a clean sweep against Bangladesh, following their hard-fought victory in Mirpur. Although regular captain Temba Bavuma remains sidelined due to injury, South Africa is determined to capitalize on Bangladesh’s recent struggles. As the World Test Championship (WTC) intensifies, every game is crucial for South Africa to maintain their path to the WTC final. With this next Test in Chattogram, South Africa aims to win their last away match of the WTC 2023-25 cycle and further their chances of reaching the final.
Challenges for Bangladesh: Shifts in Leadership and Lineup
Bangladesh has faced considerable disruptions, including the recent departure of their head coach and unexpected lineup changes. Originally planned as a farewell tour for Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh had to pivot after Shakib announced his unavailability. Adding to the uncertainty, current captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has expressed a desire to step down after less than a year in the role, though he aims to end his tenure on a high note with a win against South Africa. Shanto’s leadership legacy includes an away Test victory against Pakistan and a drawn series with New Zealand at home. Securing a victory in this series would further solidify his record.
First Innings Performance Key to Bangladesh’s Success
To compete with South Africa, Bangladesh will need to make significant improvements, particularly in their first innings. Chattogram’s pitch is expected to be less hostile than Mirpur’s, offering a chance for batters to settle in. Key players Mominul Haque and Litton Das, who failed to reach double figures in the first Test, are under pressure to contribute significantly. If Bangladesh is to keep pace with a potent South African bowling lineup, they will rely heavily on these players to bolster their batting.
South Africa’s Bowling Edge: Rabada and Spin Contingent
Kagiso Rabada’s recent performance has given South Africa a significant boost, as he achieved his 300th Test wicket and his first five-wicket haul in Asia. Rabada’s effectiveness, especially on the expected flat pitch in Chattogram, could determine the series outcome. With an impressive record built through workload management, Rabada remains the spearhead of South Africa’s attack.
In addition, spin will play a central role in this match. Taijul Islam has exploited South Africa’s weaknesses against spin effectively, and Bangladesh may strengthen their spin options by pairing Taijul with an additional bowler. For South Africa, an extra bowler may be considered, adding versatility to their lineup on the batter-friendly surface.
WTC Final Hopes Depend on Strong Finish
South Africa needs to win at least four out of their remaining five Tests to qualify for the WTC final. Although Bangladesh is already out of contention, they are motivated to deliver a solid performance on home ground, especially after recent setbacks.
Key Players to Watch: Mahmudul Hasan Joy and David Bedingham
Mahmudul Hasan Joy is the only Bangladesh player who managed to score in both innings of the first Test, with scores of 30 and 40. Given that his previous century was against South Africa, Mahmudul is crucial to Bangladesh’s batting prospects. He has scored three half-centuries in his last 21 innings, and a solid performance in this match could re-establish his form.
On South Africa’s side, David Bedingham is another player to keep an eye on. Despite a promising century against New Zealand, Bedingham has struggled to regain his form, scoring only 11 and 12 in the first Test against Bangladesh. With a first-class average of 51.66, Bedingham is one of South Africa’s best batting prospects and aims to prove his worth as a consistent run-scorer in the Test squad.
Team News: Jaker Ali Ruled Out
Bangladesh has experienced an additional setback, as batter Jaker Ali was ruled out due to a concussion sustained during practice. His replacement, Mahidul Islam Ankon, has been called up, though Bangladesh might consider adding bowler Nahid Rana instead. They may also consider introducing left-arm spinner Hasan Murad to add depth to the spin attack. For South Africa, Aiden Markram will continue as stand-in captain, as Bavuma remains unfit to play. South Africa may decide to strengthen their bowling lineup for Chattogram’s flatter pitch, potentially fielding an additional seamer like Lungi Ngidi or Dane Paterson.
Probable Teams
- Bangladesh: Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Najmul Hossain Shanto (capt), Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Das (wk), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mahidul Islam Ankon/Nahid Rana, Nayeem Hasan/Hasan Murad, Taijul Islam, Hasan Mahmud.
- South Africa: Aiden Markram (capt), Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Ryan Rickelton, Matthew Breetzke/Senuran Muthusamy, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Dane Piedt, Kagiso Rabada.
Chattogram Pitch and Weather Conditions
The Chattogram pitch is anticipated to offer more stability for batters compared to the bounce and turn observed in Mirpur. Known as one of Bangladesh’s flattest pitches, Chattogram has witnessed ten totals exceeding 500 runs across 24 matches, posing challenges for bowlers seeking to take 20 wickets. The weather is expected to remain clear, with high temperatures in the low 30°C range and humidity above 70%. South Africa’s captain, Markram, emphasized the need for proper hydration to counter the humid conditions.
Notable Stats and Records
Bangladesh has struggled historically in Chattogram, winning only two of their 24 matches at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium. Their last win at this venue came against the West Indies in 2018. For South Africa, Aiden Markram and Kyle Verreynne are the only top-seven batters with centuries scored in the subcontinent, a rare achievement for visiting players in Asian conditions.
South Africa’s pursuit of a 2-0 series victory against Bangladesh could further their WTC ambitions, while Bangladesh aims to deliver a strong performance on their home turf. This matchup not only impacts the WTC but also reflects each team’s resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges.
