‘Bangladesh batted well but we are still ahead’ - Keshav Maharaj after tough Day 3 in Dhaka

South Africa bundled Bangladesh for 106 runs in the first innings and managed a 202-run lead in Dhaka in the first Test. They looked well in control and picked up two early wickets in the third innings as well, putting the hosts under further pressure. The Najmul Shanto-led side was reduced to 112/6 at one stage and South Africa had the game in their hands before Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Jaker Ali built a 138-run partnership.

Miraz, who had a stunning time in Pakistan, returned to form with the bat against South Africa. The team desperately needed him to step up and the 26-year-old managed to do so and helped Bangladesh take an 8-run lead at the end of Day 3. Jaker also deserves credit for his knock of 58, however, the hosts are still far away from posting a challenging total for South Africa to chase.

South Africa spinner Keshav Maharaj understands that and stated that despite having a bad day on the field, his team still ahead in thega,e. He added that the morning session of Day 4 will be vital and the team is eyeing to restrict them to less than 100 runs. Meanwhile, Kagiso Rabada was once again terrific, picking up four wickets. Maharaj picked up the other three wickets. 

Also Read - Twitter Reactions: Miraz, Jaker Ali help Bangladesh take lead after another subpar batting performance on Day 3

“Bangladesh batted well and conditions got a little better with the slightly used ball, but I would say we are still ahead. They have a lead and we have three wickets to take, so we want to restrict them as much as possible but I still think we are in the pound seats given the good work we did with the bat in our first innings. Ideally, we would like to restrict them to 100 runs or below, so it will be important that we start well in the morning and then assess from there,” Maharaj was quoted as saying by Times Live.