On Day 3 at Durban, Mahmudul Hasan Joy became the first Bangladeshi to score a Test match hundred against South Africa. Joy's effort, combined with a spirited show from the middle-order, prevented South Africa from taking a massive first-innings lead after they reduced Bangladesh to 101/5.
Joy played over 300 balls for his 137, and forged crucial partnerships with Liton Das and Yasir Ali. Mehidy Hasan Miraz also provided the resistance before Joy's dismissal brought an end to the innings.
South Africa walked into the day unscathed on 6/0. Only four overs of the play was possible before bad light, followed by rain, ended the day prematurely. Bangladesh, however, lost a review on Dean Elgar, and need to be mindful on Day 4, where spinners are likely to have a say.
Although the pitch has lost its pace, it is still easy to bat on. Ahead by 75, South Africa will aim for another 300 to 320 before taking the field. Unless they bowl out South Africa, Bangladesh are unlikely to bat before Day 5 now. To force a result on this docile, the pitch South African batters need to score at around three an over on Day 4.
Fantasy Tips
- Pick Elgar and Kyle Verreynne in your fantasy team.
- Miraz and Ebadot Hossain are must-haves for your team.