In a notable demonstration of precision and prowess on the cricket field, South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada wrote his name in history on the opening day of the first Test against Bangladesh in Dhaka. Managing to dismantle the home team’s batting lineup, Rabada’s stellar performance saw the visiting South African team restrict Bangladesh to a mere 106 runs after winning the toss.
The highlight of the day, however, was Rabada’s personal achievement. As he bowled out Mushfiqur Rahim, he not only brought Bangladesh to its knees but also celebrated a monumental career milestone by reaching 300 Test wickets. This feat was achieved in just 11,817 deliveries, which positioned him as the fastest bowler to reach the 300-wicket landmark, surpassing Pakistan’s Waqar Younis who previously held the record, reaching it with 12,602 deliveries. Among other notable bowlers, South Africa’s own Dale Steyn and Allan Donald follow in the ranks, with none from India making the top nine in this category.
The list for least deliveries taken to achieve 300 wickets in Test cricket is now topped by Rabada with his record-breaking 11,817 balls. Next comes Waqar Younis at 12,602 balls, followed closely by Dale Steyn with 12,622 balls, Allan Donald at 13,690, and Malcolm Marshall of the West Indies who took 13,755 balls. In the broader context of Test matches played, Rabada equals the pace and achievement of Waqar Younis, climbing to this remarkable landmark in just 65 Test matches. Such singular brilliance has pushed him ahead of legendary Indian bowler Anil Kumble who claimed his 300th wicket in his 66th Test series. When considering match count alone, Rabada now stands as the joint 10th quickest to this achievement.
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This Test match showcases South Africa’s strategic advantage, owing much to Rabada’s form which set a commanding tone in Dhaka. Not to be overlooked in their efforts, Rabada’s fellow bowlers Wiaan Mulder and Keshav Maharaj both captured three wickets, while Dane Piedt contributed significantly with one. Their combined strengths left Bangladesh in significant disarray on their home turf. South Africa now looks primed to leverage this strong start by securing a substantial first-innings lead and avoiding the challenge of a declining pitch that increasingly aids spin bowlers.
In terms of cricket line-ups, Bangladesh commenced the match with Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto heading their batting order, followed by Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, and wicketkeeper Litton Das. Rounding out their team were all-rounders Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Jaker Ali, with Nayeem Hasan, Taijul Islam, and Hasan Mahmud emphasizing their bowling attack. For South Africa, the opening was handled by Tony de Zorzi and captain Aiden Markram, supported by Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, and Ryan Rickelton. The middle order saw contributions from Matthew Breetzke and wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne, while the formidable bowling squad featured Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, and Dane Piedt.
As the South African team basks in the glow of Rabada’s outstanding accomplishment, their focus remains squarely on maintaining their advantageous position throughout this series. While Bangladesh grapples with the setback, coming days will reveal if they can regroup and reclaim footing in front of home fans. In the chronicles of Test cricket, Rabada’s achievement marks yet another chapter of unique South African excellence and stands as motivation for the team to strive further heights against formidable international adversaries.
