The expectations were that Bangladesh would struggle to survive on a pitch that always showed inconsistent bounce and pace against an attack that had enough variety in it to exploit the conditions. These expectations were correct

Once the top order had been removed, the door was opened and Bangladesh could not get a partnership going long enough to tire the South Africans. Ntini bowled his heart out and was the pick of the bowlers. He is truly a gem to have in the team. Pollock was always threatening but somehow he seems to be labouring. Somehow I suspect that a slight niggle is disrupting his rhythm and pace.

Being all out for just over a hundred meant that the Bangladeshi’s had to bat again. The entire process had taken just a morning session and seen a capitulation that would not make a faithful supporter happy at all. The lack of a clear strategy meant that batsmen weren’t sure whether to attack or survive and in the end they succumbed meekly.

The second innings started in a much better fashion with a solid opening partnership. The change in mindset was clear to see although it must be said that the Proteas would have felt slightly drained of energy. Again Ntini was the man who led the aggression and ensured that wickets fell at the right times for South Africa. Peterson was able to make his bowling debut with batsmen under pressure and took wickets. Graeme Smith used Paul Adams sparingly and this was surprising due to the fact that he was the destroyer-in-chief in the first Test.

With play extended to facilitate a result the Bangladeshi batsmen stuck to their task and ensured that play would continue into the fourth day.

South Africa will be pleased with their efforts even though their ground fielding was not as good as usual. Bowling out any team twice in a day on a pitch devoid of grass is certainly not an everyday occurrence. An outstanding player of the day was Mark Boucher. Having to catch balls very low down all day and staying focussed with plenty of spin being bowled is never easy.

The Bangladesh players will be disappointed with their showing and can look no further than themselves. Poor shot selection was the order of the day. It is not as if the main batsmen are palookas, they just have to learn that Test cricket is a tough business and that a price has to be placed on every wicket.

© Wisden Cricinfo Ltd