Wiaan Mulder – Tony de Zorzi Shine As Proteas Bowlers Dominate Bangladesh In Chattogram. In a thrilling display of South African resilience and talent, Wiaan Mulder and Tony de Zorzi led the Proteas to a commanding position against Bangladesh, highlighting the depth and promise of South Africa’s squad in this Test series. Overcoming past challenges, both players reached significant personal milestones, setting a formidable score for the Proteas on the second day of the Chattogram Test match. With the bowlers following suit, South Africa left Bangladesh in a vulnerable position, keeping the Proteas’ hopes alive for a comprehensive victory.
Wiaan Mulder Resurgence
Four years ago, at just 22, Wiaan Mulder faced severe back and hip injuries that threatened his ability to bowl and even questioned his future in cricket. With an unwavering commitment to recovery, Mulder transformed his game through adjustments in his bowling technique and a refined understanding of his body’s limits. Now, at 26, he is fulfilling the potential that first earned him an international debut at 19. South Africa’s head coach, Shukri Conrad, had faith in Mulder’s abilities, positioning him as the Proteas’ primary all-rounder.
On the second day of the Test in Chattogram, Mulder’s efforts bore fruit as he struck his maiden Test century. This knock not only helped South Africa post an impressive first innings score but also showcased his evolving prowess in red-ball cricket. His century marks a new chapter in Mulder’s career, providing a solid foundation for him to continue contributing significantly with both bat and ball.
Tony de Zorzi Commanding Knock
Alongside Mulder’s century, Tony de Zorzi continued to dazzle fans and critics alike. De Zorzi’s 177 was nothing short of brilliant as he tirelessly attacked Bangladesh’s bowlers, establishing a partnership with David Bedingham, who supported with a quick 59 off 78 deliveries. De Zorzi’s innings of 177, coupled with the physical resilience he displayed to battle cramps and dehydration on the first day, set the tone for South Africa’s impressive total of 575/6 declared. His innings served as a masterclass in focus and stamina, further solidifying his position in the squad.
De Zorzi’s efforts were instrumental in the Proteas achieving three centurions in a single innings for the first time since 2017, with Tristan Stubbs also adding a solid 106 to the scoreboard. His calculated approach, paired with the timely boundary shots, allowed South Africa to dominate the game early.
Proteas Bowling Unit Crushes Bangladesh Top Order
The Proteas’ bowlers wasted no time making an impact as Bangladesh began their first innings. Kagiso Rabada struck in the first over, dismissing opener Shadman Islam caught behind. Soon after, Bangladesh’s second opener, Zakir Hasan, also fell to a quick delivery, nicking behind. Although Zakir chose to review the decision, the third umpire upheld the call, leaving Bangladesh in an early slump.
Dane Paterson, a fresh inclusion in the series, dismissed Mahmudul Hasan Joy, while Keshav Maharaj sent nightwatchman Hasan Mahmud back to the pavilion with a beautifully executed delivery that spun from leg to off-stump. By the end of play on day two, Bangladesh found themselves struggling at 38/4, trailing by 537 runs and in dire need of stability.
Score Summary
| Player | Runs | Balls Faced | 4s | 6s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tony de Zorzi | 177 | 258 | 18 | 2 |
| Tristan Stubbs | 106 | 153 | 11 | 3 |
| Wiaan Mulder | 105* | 144 | 10 | 1 |
| David Bedingham | 59 | 78 | 6 | 1 |
| Senuran Muthusamy | 68* | 110 | 7 | 0 |
South Africa 1st Innings: 575/6 Declared
Bowling Performance
South Africa’s bowlers effectively dismantled Bangladesh’s top order in their first innings, with Kagiso Rabada setting the pace and Dane Paterson and Keshav Maharaj building on that momentum.
| Bowler | Overs | Maidens | Runs | Wickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kagiso Rabada | 5 | 1 | 10 | 1 |
| Dane Paterson | 7 | 2 | 13 | 1 |
| Keshav Maharaj | 8 | 3 | 15 | 1 |
| Wiaan Mulder | 6 | 2 | 20 | 0 |
Analysis of Key Performers
Wiaan Mulder
Mulder’s stellar form in this series is evident as he continues to excel both with the bat and ball. His maiden Test century, combined with valuable runs and crucial bowling figures in the previous match (3/22 and 1/40), underline his emergence as a key player for South Africa.
Tony de Zorzi
De Zorzi’s knock of 177 stands out not only for its sheer volume but also for the strategic way he built his innings. Known for his agility and precision, de Zorzi capitalized on every gap in the field, ensuring the Proteas maintained their dominance.
Kagiso Rabada
Rabada’s early breakthrough set the tone for Bangladesh’s innings. Known for his ability to exploit any pitch condition, Rabada’s dismissal of Shadman Islam was a testament to his skill in high-stakes scenarios.
Keshav Maharaj
Maharaj’s mastery over spin was on full display as he bowled Hasan Mahmud, showcasing his ability to apply pressure on batters. His control over spin and flight continues to make him a formidable presence in South Africa’s bowling lineup.
South Africa Strategic Approach
South Africa’s game plan in this Test has been both tactical and calculated. The Proteas’ top-order batsmen set a solid foundation, giving the team a commanding position that the bowlers then capitalized on. Coach Shukri Conrad’s faith in a balanced team approach is evident as both batsmen and bowlers executed their roles with precision. His backing of Mulder as a primary all-rounder has proved invaluable, and the inclusion of Paterson brought an added edge to South Africa’s pace attack.
What’s Next for Bangladesh?
Bangladesh’s response on day three will be crucial if they are to avoid a heavy defeat. Their top order has failed to withstand the Proteas’ aggressive bowling attack, and they face an uphill task in stabilizing their innings. Much will depend on their middle-order resilience and whether they can devise a strategy to counter South Africa’s bowlers, particularly with Maharaj’s spin and Rabada’s pace.
Conclusion
The Proteas’ remarkable performance in the first innings has set them up for potential victory against Bangladesh in Chattogram. With Wiaan Mulder and Tony de Zorzi achieving personal milestones and the bowlers striking early, South Africa has positioned itself as the dominant force in this match. With a 537-run lead and Bangladesh already four wickets down, the Proteas hold the upper hand. Should they continue this momentum on day three, a decisive win could be within reach, reinforcing South Africa’s prowess in Test cricket.
