Taijul promises Bangladesh will make a strong comeback against South Africa

Bangladesh spinner Taijul Islam expressed his determination on Monday to level the series against South Africa in the second and final Test, following a heavy seven-wicket loss in the first match.

South Africa, who have won all 15 Test matches against Bangladesh, are aiming for a series sweep to boost their standing in the World Test Championship (WTC).

"We have a single objective — to win this match," Taijul stated ahead of the Test in Chattogram, which is known for its batting-friendly pitch.

"Whether it’s batting, bowling, or fielding, we need to perform as a team," added the 32-year-old spinner, who claimed eight wickets in the first Test in Mirpur. Bangladesh has played 24 Tests in Chattogram, securing only two wins and seven draws, the most they’ve achieved at any venue. South Africa currently stands fifth in the WTC rankings, while Bangladesh is placed eighth.

Taijul emphasized the importance of partnerships, suggesting that if two or three partnerships develop, with a couple of batters scoring centuries or half-centuries, Bangladesh could set a competitive total. He also dismissed speculation that he might replace captain Najmul Hossain Shanto after the Test but affirmed his readiness if given the opportunity, saying, "I’ve been playing for 10 years. I’m ready." Bangladesh has made two squad changes, bringing in right-arm pacer Khaled Ahmed to replace Taskin Ahmed, and uncapped wicketkeeper Mahidul Islam Ankon in place of Jaker Ali, who debuted in the first Test.

Winning Consistently
South Africa’s stand-in captain Aiden Markram described their victory in Mirpur, which ended a decade-long winless streak in South Asia, as "a huge relief."

"Top teams find ways to win consistently — that’s been our focus heading into this Test," Markram told reporters. "Hopefully, we can replicate that success."

Kagiso Rabada was the standout player in the opening Test, claiming nine wickets and becoming the fastest bowler to reach 300 Test wickets. Additionally, wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne contributed a century. Markram is leading the side while regular captain Temba Bavuma recovers from a muscle injury.

"It’s always an honor and privilege to captain your country, especially in a Test match, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it," Markram said, acknowledging his team’s efforts. "The players are the ones who make the real impact."

"We had players step up in the first Test, putting us in a strong position to win," he added. "Our focus for this Test remains the same."