NEW DELHI: In an impressive display, South Africa on Wednesday improved upon their 14-year-old record during the 2nd Test against Bangladesh at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram.
The Proteas smashed a total of 17 sixes in the first innings of the second Test, surpassing their previous best of 15 sixes against the West Indies in 2010.
The batting lineup produced a dominant performance, amassing 577/6 declared in 144.2 overs. Aiden Markram, leading from the front, could only score 33 off 55 balls, including two boundaries.
However, Tony de Zorzi followed with a well-constructed 177, smashing 12 fours and four sixes before falling to Taijul Islam.
The fireworks truly began with Tristan Stubbs and David Bedingham. While Stubbs added 106 off 198 balls, it was Bedingham’s aggressive 59 that featured several big hits.
Most sixes by South Africa in an innings of a Test Match
- 17 vs BAN, Chattogram, 2024*
- 15 vs WI, Basseterre, 2010
- 12 vs AUS, Cape Town, 2009
- 12 vs IND, Centurion, 2010
Wiaan Mulder’s unbeaten 105 off 150 balls, with four sixes to his name, further demonstrated South Africa’s intent.
Senuran Muthusamy also played a supporting role, contributing 70 not out, peppered with a couple of maximums. This collective power-hitting ensured that South Africa rewrote the record books.
For Bangladesh, Taijul Islam was the pick of the hosts, taking 5/198, but even his efforts couldn’t contain the Proteas’ assault.
With South Africa winning the toss and opting to bat, they now hold a commanding position in the five-day contest.