Bangladesh 40/4

A tense atmosphere surrounded the Mirpur home of cricket, marked by heavy security and an eerie silence. The scene inside the stadium mirrored the desolate streets outside. After losing the toss, South Africa opted to bowl first and made a strong start, while Bangladesh's batting lineup crumbled early, sending the nearly empty stands into further silence as three batters departed within the first six overs. The pressure intensified with the dismissal of Mushfiqur Rahim.

South Africa had not won any of their last 13 Tests played in the subcontinent, and Bangladesh had never beaten the Proteas in Test cricket. However, with the advantage of home conditions, Najmul Hossain Shanto's team felt confident. But that confidence quickly evaporated within minutes of the match beginning.

In the second over of the innings, Saadman Islam, attempting an unnecessary shot, was caught by Aiden Markram at second slip. This was especially disappointing as Saadman had just scored a half-century against India in the previous match. Wiaan Mulder was the bowler who dismissed him, handing Saadman a duck. Muminul Haque, coming in at number three, could only manage four runs before falling to the same bowler, with Kyle Verreynne taking the catch.

Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto's struggle to stabilize the innings deepened the team's woes. After Mulder's third breakthrough, Shanto managed just seven runs from seven balls. His mode of dismissal surprised many, especially given his recent statement at a press conference, claiming he knew better than others which shots to play. This dismissal highlighted a critical lapse in his shot selection.

The most experienced player, Mushfiqur Rahim, also failed to contribute significantly. After Mulder's impressive three-wicket haul, Kagiso Rabada finally made his mark, dismissing Mushfiqur and reaching the milestone of 300 Test wickets.

The situation for Bangladesh looks grim as they continue to struggle against the South African bowlers.