Mirpur: South Africa’s recent triumph over Bangladesh not only ended a decade-long drought of victories on the subcontinent but also propelled them closer to a spot in the upcoming ICC World Test Championship final. By defeating Bangladesh by seven wickets in Mirpur on Thursday, the Proteas ascended to fourth in the championship standings, enhancing their prospects of making it to the prestigious one-off Test in London next year.

According to International Cricket Council, this victory marks a significant turnaround for the South African team, which has struggled in Asian conditions in the past. The win in Mirpur is part of a broader strategy aiming for qualification for the championship final, with several crucial matches remaining in the current cycle.

The Proteas are set to face Bangladesh again in Chattogram next Tuesday. Success in this match would strengthen their position, especially as they look forward to hosting Sri Lanka and Pakistan in two home series later this year. Aiden Markram, standing in as captain in lieu of Temba Bavuma, expressed his optimism about the team’s growing confidence and belief in their ability to continue their strong performance in upcoming matches.

The impact of this victory is multifaceted, providing the South African team not only with points but also with morale-boosting momentum, crucial for their subsequent fixtures. However, despite the recent win, the path to the final is challenging. South Africa likely needs to secure victories in at least four out of their next five matches to finish in the top two of the standings and secure their place at Lord’s.

The situation remains bleak for Bangladesh, which, after this loss, finds itself in seventh place in the standings, with only three more matches remaining this cycle, dimming their chances of reaching the final.