Kagiso Rabada claimed a record-setting 300th test wicket as Bangladesh were bowled out for 106 in their opening innings on the first day of the first test at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Monday. The 29-year-old South African paceman became the fastest to reach 300 test wickets, achieving the feat in just 11,187 balls to break former Pakistan pacer Waqar Younis—a record of 12,602 balls. Rabada reached the milestone after dismissing Bangladesh captain Mushfiqur Rahim with a ripping delivery that jagged back and shattered the stumps.
The fast bowler has quickly emerged as one of the game’s top young talents in recent years. His accomplishment in Dhaka, where he claimed his 300th test wicket, further cements his status as a key member of his nation?s bowling attack. His ability to generate genuine speed of over 90mph combined with exceptional footwork and a clean line off the pitch have made him a hugely destructive player for South Africa, significantly impacting the game on a global stage where quality fast bowlers are in short supply.
He embarked on his illustrious career at the tender age of 18, making his debut in 2015. Since then, he has been a regular member of South Africa?s side, with 61 test appearances to date. His exceptional pace and ability to swing the ball have seen him claim a wealth of wickets. With this latest achievement, he has now entered the elite group of modern-day international fast bowlers, a testament to his unwavering determination and skill.
Rabada and fellow paceman Wiaan Mulder were relentless with the new ball. They dismissed Bangladesh for just 106 in their opening innings on a pitch that was turning, bouncing, and offering assistance to the bowlers. The middle order struggled, with Litton Das expertly caught in the slips by Tristan Stubbs to leave Bangladesh reeling at 21-3.
After lunch, Rabada continued to make inroads, reducing Bangladesh to 60-6 and then having captain Najmul Hossain Shanto caught at slip by Kyle Verreynne with a ripper. South Africa lost more than half its side as it struggled to handle a deteriorating wicket that offered little assistance to the batters.
The pace duo was supported by spinners Keshav Maharaj and Dane Piedt, who chipped in with wickets to ensure South Africa gained a slight lead on a day when poor shot selection led to some unlucky dismissals. The visitors are looking to push for a substantial lead on this sluggish pitch, and some shoddy fielding from the Bangladesh batters aided them.