South Africa cruised to a 7-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the first Test at Mirpur, thanks to a dominant all-around performance. After setting a modest target of 106, South Africa chased it down with ease in just 22 overs, despite a valiant effort from Bangladesh's spinners. South African captain Aiden Markram praised his team’s consistency and credited the bowlers for their exceptional performance on the opening day.

Markram reflected on the win, stating, “It was a really good performance. It’s incredibly tough for the team to put four days of good cricket together, although most of the damage was done on day one. Our bowlers were great, and then the batters helped us get a great lead. When you get a lead like that, it’s tough for the opposition to come back. Credit to Bangladesh for making us graft yesterday, but to knock them off was a good feather in the cap.”

In the first innings, Bangladesh collapsed for 106 runs in 40.1 overs, with Rabada, Mulder, and Maharaj each picking up three wickets. Bangladesh’s batting lineup struggled from the start, losing wickets rapidly. Mahmudul Hasan Joy (30) was the only top-order player who showed some resistance, while Taijul Islam (16) and Mehidy Hasan Miraz (13) added brief contributions.

South Africa responded with a strong total of 308 in their first innings, led by Kyle Verreynne’s outstanding 114 off 144 balls. Wiaan Mulder (54) and Dane Piedt (32) provided crucial support, helping the visitors establish a commanding lead. Taijul Islam was the standout bowler for Bangladesh, taking 5 wickets for 122 runs.

Markram acknowledged that losing the toss didn’t harm his team: “It was a good toss to lose. We would’ve batted first too, that’s what happens in the subcontinent, but our bowlers managed to bundle them out for a low score.”

Bangladesh put up a stronger fight in their second innings, scoring 307, with a brilliant knock from Mehidy Hasan Miraz (97) and Jaker Ali’s 58. However, Kagiso Rabada was unstoppable, claiming 6 wickets for just 46 runs. Miraz’s century partnership with Jaker Ali helped Bangladesh avoid an innings defeat, but it wasn’t enough to save the match. Rabada’s clinical bowling performance and Markram’s leadership guided South Africa to a dominant position.

“Rabada is a special bowler for us,” Markram said. “For Kyle to step in and play that sort of innings, that’s really special. Emphasis is on whoever’s playing to make it count.”

In the final innings, South Africa reached their target of 106 runs, losing just three wickets. Tony de Zorzi (41), Markram (20), and Tristan Stubbs (30*) ensured a comfortable chase, despite a late surge from Taijul Islam, who picked up all three wickets in the second innings.