South Africa’s Bowlers Relieved as Batters Hit Form in Bangladesh Series
Rabada observed the improvement in batting form earlier this year during a drawn two-match series against India, remarking, “I was very impressed with our batting when India came to South Africa. I think that's when it really struck for me.
In Chittagong, Bangladesh, South Africa's cricket team has experienced a significant turnaround in their batting performance, culminating in a successful two-Test series victory against Bangladesh. This improvement has been a welcome relief for a bowling unit that had previously faced immense pressure.
Kagiso Rabada, who played a crucial role in the series by claiming 14 wickets, has returned to the top of the International Cricket Council's Test bowler rankings. He expressed the newfound ease among bowlers, noting that they no longer carry the heavy burden of needing to secure victories single-handedly.
During the first Test, South Africa scored 308 runs in their first innings and achieved a target of 106 runs to win by seven wickets. The second Test saw a commanding declaration at 575 for 6, resulting in an innings victory by 273 runs. Remarkably, the series featured three centuries, including maiden Test tons from players, marking only the second instance in Test cricket history of multiple players scoring their first centuries in a match.
Reflecting on the successful series, Rabada humorously noted, “Whenever we get two days to put our feet up, I'm more than happy. So if we can sleep, you know, whilst they're batting, that's fantastic, so they must keep it up.” He highlighted the confidence boost that the team's performances have provided, especially in challenging subcontinental conditions against Bangladesh.
Rabada observed the improvement in batting form earlier this year during a drawn two-match series against India, remarking, “I was very impressed with our batting when India came to South Africa. I think that's when it really struck for me.” He acknowledged that while conditions might have been slightly easier in Bangladesh, the hard work put in by the players was still essential.
The 29-year-old fast bowler noted that the team has gone through a transition phase but is now beginning to find its rhythm. "I think we are almost coming into a bit of a sweet spot. I've been really impressed with the guys that have recently come on board and how they're making an impact," he concluded, looking forward to maintaining this positive momentum.
