adminCHITTAGONG. – Half-centuries by Mahmudullah Riyad and Tamim Iqbal gave Bangladesh the edge over top-ranked South Africa yesterday as the unfancied hosts reached 179-4 before rain stopped play on the second day of the first Test cricket.
Mahmudullah made 67 while Tamim added a patient 57 as Bangladesh reduced their deficit to 69 runs after the Proteas were dismissed for a modest 248 in Chittagong.
Vernon Philander trapped Mahmudullah leg-before just before rain ended the day’s play in the third session, swinging the game back towards the visitors after lowly Bangladesh appeared to have taken the advantage.
Mahmudullah, who hit 10 fours off 138 balls, put on 89 with Tamim for the third wicket, providing the backbone of the Bangladesh innings after the hosts resumed yesterday on 7-0.
Tamim, who faced 129 balls, scored his first fifty against South Africa in five Tests before he was bowled by a full toss from left-arm spinner Dean Elgar on the stroke of the tea break.
South Africa’s bowling coach Charl Langeveldt believes Bangladesh have a slight advantage in the game.
“I think it is 60-40 in their side,” he said after stumps. “The game is fairly even. If they get a 100-run lead against us, we will be struggling.
“Bangladesh really batted well. They were patient. Normally they have the second highest scoring rate. I think our guys bowled really well and Bangladesh batted well.”
Bangladesh’s Mahmudullah said the third day’s opening session would be crucial for both the teams.
“I think if we can spend first session tomorrow without losing any wicket we will be in the driving seat,” he said. “Anything close to 400 runs will be good score in this wicket.” – AFP.
Online Reporter