Mominul Haque’s gritty half-century and a crucial ninth-wicket partnership with Taijul Islam rescued Bangladesh from a precarious position on the third morning of the second Test against South Africa.
After South Africa’s pace attack, led by Kagiso Rabada, tore through Bangladesh’s top order, leaving them reeling at 48 for 8, Haque and Islam combined for an 89-run stand that frustrated the Proteas.
Rabada, who recently regained the top spot in the Test bowling rankings, continued his impressive form, claiming his second five-wicket haul of the series. His average of 7.78 in the series is the best among South Africans who have taken at least ten wickets.
Bangladesh’s collapse began with the dismissal of Mushfiqur Rahim, who gifted a catch to Tony de Zorzi at square leg for a second-ball duck. The wickets continued to fall in quick succession, with four batters dismissed within 12 balls.
However, Haque and Islam showed resilience and determination, digging in to rebuild Bangladesh’s innings. Haque reached his 20th Test fifty, while Islam provided valuable support with a patient 33.
Their partnership frustrated South Africa’s bowlers and gave Bangladesh a glimmer of hope. The Proteas eventually broke through when Rabada dismissed Islam, but Haque remained unbeaten on 51 at the end of the day’s play.
Bangladesh still trail South Africa by 144 runs, but Haque’s innings and the ninth-wicket stand have given them a fighting chance of saving the Test.
