Mehidy Hasan's Heroics Give Bangladesh 81-Run Lead

Bangladesh's Mehidy Hasan Miraz and debutant Jaker Ali played crucial innings to give Bangladesh an 81-run lead over South Africa by the end of Day 3 in the first Test, finishing at 283-7. Mehidy scored an impressive 87 not out, while Jaker contributed with a significant 58, their partnership adding 138 runs for the seventh wicket to stave off an innings defeat. Kagiso Rabada's early breakthroughs for South Africa had initially put Bangladesh on the back foot, dismissing key batsmen including Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Mushfiqur Rahim. Despite the early setbacks, the efforts of Mehidy and Jaker brought hope to the host team, although South Africa remains optimistic about restricting Bangladesh further. Rain and bad light limited play, and the match's outcome remains open as Bangladesh seeks their first ever Test win against South Africa. The second Test is set to commence on October 29 in Chattogram.