Bangladesh`s hopes for a solid start in their Test against South Africa were dashed as they stumbled to 60 runs for 6 wickets by lunch on the first day.
With a lineup featuring seven batsmen, two spinners, and the all-rounder Mehedi Hasan Miraz, the team was eager to make a mark, especially with Zakir Ali making his debut.
Captain Nazmul Hossain won the toss and opted to bat first, looking to set a strong foundation.
However, the opening session quickly turned into a nightmare for the home side.
Opener Mahmudul Hasan was left stranded on 16 runs from 86 balls, while the South African bowlers, particularly Wiaan Mulder and Kagiso Rabada, wreaked havoc.
The Proteas kicked off their wicket-taking spree with Sadman Islam, who was dismissed without scoring.
He attempted to drive a wide delivery from Mulder but ended up edging it to slip. The early dismissal set a troubling tone for Bangladesh.
Mominul Haque soon followed, caught behind after misjudging a full-length delivery from Mulder.
The pressure mounted as captain Nazmul, trying to assert himself, fell victim to a ball that angled into him, resulting in a catch to Keshav Maharaj.
His departure for just 7 runs left the team reeling at 21 runs for 3 wickets in just six overs.
Things didn`t get any better as Rabada returned from a drinks break to bowl Mushfiqur Rahim, a blow that took away the team’s most experienced batsman.
Mushfiqur could only manage 11 runs, adding to the growing tension in the dressing room.
With this wicket, Rabada celebrated his 300th Test wicket, a milestone that added to the challenges for the struggling Bangladeshi side.
Litton Das also fell victim to Rabada`s impressive bowling, caught at gully after scoring just 1 run.
The scorecard read a disheartening 50 runs for 5 wickets, leaving fans anxious and hopeful for a recovery.
Before the lunch break, Bangladesh lost their sixth wicket, with Miraz getting trapped LBW by Maharaj`s clever arm ball.
He made 13 runs with three boundaries, but it wasn’t enough to halt the slide.
As the players headed to lunch, the atmosphere was tense, with the home team desperately needing a turnaround in the second session.
Scores
Bangladesh 1st Innings: 60/6 in 26.1 overs
(Mahmudul 16*, Miraz 13, Mushfiq 11, Nazmul 7, Mominul 4, Liton 1, Sadman 0; Mulder 3/22, Rabada 2/16, Maharaj 1/16)
At the end of the first session on Day 1.
