Towhid Hridoy’s century keeps Bangladesh steady after Rabada’s five-wicket haul at Wanderers

Bangladesh reached 327 for 6 on the opening day of the first Test against South Africa at the Wanderers in Johannesburg. The day was shaped by two contrasting performances: Towhid Hridoy’s patient century and Kagiso Rabada’s incisive five-wicket return, which kept the contest evenly poised.

Hridoy’s 137 came off 227 balls and included 14 fours, forming the backbone of Bangladesh’s response after an uncertain start. He brought up his hundred after drinks in the final session before falling leg before wicket to Marco Jansen off a full toss. Litton Das remained unbeaten on 92 at the close, having shared a 206-run sixth-wicket partnership with Hridoy, the highest stand between any Bangladesh pair against South Africa.

How Bangladesh rebuilt after the collapse

Rabada struck early to leave Bangladesh in trouble, reducing the visitors to 22 for 3 inside the opening hour. Among his victims was Tanzid Hasan Tamim, who made 67, while Mushfiqur Rahim fell for a first-ball duck just before lunch, again to Rabada. Simon Harmer also played a part in the bowling effort as South Africa looked to seize control.

From that fragile position, Hridoy and Litton rebuilt the innings with composure and sound judgement. Their 206-run sixth-wicket stand changed the momentum of the match and helped Bangladesh post a competitive total at a ground where visiting teams have often struggled.

Rabada moves up South Africa’s all-time list

Rabada’s figures of 5 for 51 marked his 18th five-wicket haul in Test cricket, taking him level with Makhaya Ntini on South Africa’s all-time list. The achievement puts him joint third among the country’s leading five-wicket takers, behind Dale Steyn, who has 26, and Allan Donald, who took 20. It further cements Rabada’s status as one of South Africa’s most prolific Test bowlers, even as Bangladesh fought back through Hridoy and Litton.

The first Test at the Wanderers is scheduled to run from November 15 to 19, 2026, with South Africa yet to bat. Bangladesh will resume with Litton still unbeaten on 92 and their lower order yet to come. The fixture is part of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship cycle.

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