South Africa spinners Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer took all 10 wickets between them as the hosts crushed dismal Bangladesh by 332 runs to claim the series 2-0 following the completion of the second Test at St George’s Park on Monday.
Bangladesh resumed on the fourth morning at 27 for three chasing a venue record 413 but seemed to already have their minds on the flight home as poor shot selections allowed South Africa to skittle them out for 80 in their second innings.
Maharaj took 7/40 and Harmer 3/34 on a wicket that provided prodigious turn but were not unfamiliar conditions for sub-continent side Bangladesh, who will be desperately disappointed with their application.
South Africa won the first Test in Durban by 220 runs, where they bowled Bangladesh out for 53 in their second innings. The home side will be especially pleased with the series win as six of their first team regulars chose to play in the Indian Premier League and were not available.
“Playing this series with what people have called a ‘weakened’ squad gives other guys opportunities at this level,” captain Dean Elgar said.
“Having the luxury of two quality spin bowlers in our squad is brilliant. We have tough challenges coming up, England (July-September) and Australia (December-January) away but if you have a lot of options you give yourself the best chance of winning.”
Elgar believes his team has improved beyond most expectations. The side recently beat India 2-1 at home and also drew 1-1 in New Zealand to record five wins from seven matches over the season, five of which were played against the two teams that contested the Test World Championship final last year.
South Africa made light work of dismissing the tourists, though Bangladesh were their own worst enemies as they tried to hit themselves out of trouble with disastrous results.
Only Litton Das (27) provided any sort of resistance, though he was stumped by wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne as he advanced down the wicket against Maharaj. “I’m a bit disappointed but we have to move forward,” Bangladesh captain Mominul Haque said.
Brief scores: South Africa 453 & 176/6 decl. Bangladesh 217 & 80 (K, Maharaj 7/40, S. Harmer 3/34). South Africa won by 332 runs.
