Bangladesh aim for unattained in South Africa after landmark leap in Australia

Bangladesh have their eyes peeled on their upcoming multi‑format tour of South Africa, which begins with a two‑match Test series in November, following their historic feat down under against Australia. The Bangla Tigers drew the two‑match Test series 1‑1 against the Aussies and registered an unparalleled jump to No. six in the ICC men's Test team rankings.

They had the opportunity to become only the second Asian side ever to win a Test series in Australia but suffered a heavy defeat by an innings and 51 runs in the second match at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay.

Despondent after the excruciating loss in Mackay, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto conceded that his side was far from up to the mark but held his head high for finishing the bilateral contest on level terms.

"I don't think anyone will forget what we have done in Darwin, but it is also true that we didn't play good cricket in this Test," Shanto said after the loss in Mackay. "When you look at how Australia played in Mackay, you realise exactly what type of team we defeated in Darwin. They decided to bowl first at home, which I have heard they don't often do. Australia's comeback showed how much we challenged them."

Bangladesh's next SENA tour takes them to South Africa in November, where they will play a two‑match Test series. The bilateral tour includes two Tests, three ODIs and three T20Is. The tour will begin with the first Test in Johannesburg on November 15, while the second Test will be played in Centurion from November 23 onwards.

Bangladesh have not won a single Test match against the Proteas. They have previously toured the Rainbow Nation four times for two‑match Test series and have lost every game.

However, the 1‑1 result in Australia has instilled a sense of belief in Shanto, and he feels they can "do it" in South Africa.

"I personally didn't feel too excited after winning in Darwin. I initially treated this as just another Test win. I think when I was observing what has been happening in the last two days in Mackay, especially from the dugout or slip cordon, I realised what we have actually done. We won a good Test match in Darwin. It is a win to be proud of. We now have two wins of such magnitude. We have defeated New Zealand and Australia in their conditions. I hope we do it in South Africa, which will only help our Test team," Shanto added.

Bangladesh and South Africa Test series results