Taijul, Khaled pull things back

Bangladesh would be relatively satisfied after the way the visitors staged a brilliant fightback, courtesy of Taijul Islam's three-wicket haul and Khaled Ahmed picking up two, as South Africa ended up 278 for 5 after the first day of the second Test in Gqeberha yesterday.

Taijul, who was among the two changes from the first Test, remained instrumental and caused trouble for the Proteas batters as the left-arm spinner ended up with figures of three from his 32 overs while conceding 72 runs.

Electing to bat first, South Africa batters dominated over the visitors, led by the Proteas skipper Deal Elgar showing stability alongside Sarel Erwee as the opening pair added 52 runs.

Pacer Khaled, who bowled well in the first Test, gave the breakthrough for the Tigers as the seamer got the outside edge of left-hander Erwee, on 24, with Liton Das completing a sharp catch by diving towards his left.

Rain had interrupted the second session, which saw the hosts score 92 runs and lose two wickets, for about half an hour, impacting the timings of day's play.

Taijul kept the Tigers in hunt as the experienced left arm spinner bowled the most number of overs in the innings and ultimately was rewarded for his patience and hard work. Taijul first removed Elgar, caught behind after the hosts' skipper scored an impressive 89-ball 70 by striking ten fours, to break the 81-run second-wicket stand. The 30-year-old picked up his second wicket when he trapped Keegan Peterson leg-before for 64 with a review.

Taijul dismissed Ryan Rickelton, who scored 42, in the final hour of the day with a review while Khaled went on to remove the dangerous Temba Bavuma for 67 runs and brought Bangladesh back in the game late in the day.