South Africa wrap it up in just over an hour today with a victory by an innings and 205 runs. That's a predictable 2-0 series win and Bangladesh's frailties at the Test level have been exposed for the umpteenth time. The top order failed to stick it out and plan for five days rather than one session. We keep saying that for a struggling team, the only way is up, but Bangladesh just don't seem to be showing any improvement on a consistent basis. They gave the South Africans a scare in Mirpur but couldn't sustain the momentum.
Peterson will be very happy with his performance of 5 for 33. I understand he's been in good form this season for the Warriors, picking up 24 wickets in ten SuperSport matches. Smith and McKenzie added a world record 415 for the first wicket and most of their players have had their moments.
Graeme Smith, speaking at the post-match presentation, said: "It has been fantastic. The guys will take a lot of confidence before going to India. It's nice mentally to get into the right frame of mind when playing in the subcontinent. This tour has been beneficial so far."
Here's what Mohammad Ashraful had to say about Mohammad Rafique, who just played his final Test: "He has been a legend for our country." Rafique also collected a commemorative plaque from the Bangladesh board. He ends his Test career with an exact 100 wickets. He's been a real stalwart for Bangladesh and one who managed to keep the cheer amidst all the heavy defeats. Here's wishing him all the best for his future from all of us here in Cricinfo.
Dale Steyn in the Player of the Series. When reminded that India woud be much warmer than this, he said: "I'm sweating like a pig already."
Thanks for joining us. The first one-dayer is also in Chittagong, starting March 9. Play starts at 9.30 local, 3.30 GMT. This is Kanishkaa Balachandran signing off. Cheers!
Mashrafe Mortaza c McKenzie b Morkel 4 (8m 3b 1x4 0x6) SR: 133.33
Three slips, a widish fourth slip and a gully in place
Morkel replaces Steyn
END OF OVER:39 | (wicket maiden) | BAN: 114/8
- Mashrafe Mortaza0 (1b)
- Abdur Razzak32 (37b)
- Robin Peterson13-2-33-5
- Dale Steyn11-2-35-3
South Africa are one wicket away from victory
Shahadat Hossain c Prince b Peterson 24 (49m 42b 4x4 0x6) SR: 57.14
END OF OVER:38 | 4 Runs | BAN: 114/7
- Abdur Razzak32 (37b)
- Shahadat Hossain24 (37b)
- Dale Steyn11-2-35-3
- Robin Peterson12-1-33-4