It was Bangladesh’s first victory over the Proteas.  Wolvaardt admitted that the team struggled to play spin, but says Bangladesh was simply better on the day.

The Proteas’ bowling was sloppy and the 24 extras bowled were a gift to the Tigresses.  It is also something Wolvaardt says will be addressed in the change room before their next game in Potchefstroom.

Their batting and fielding were equally sub-par with Wolvaardt describing it as a bad day at the office. 

“I think the game was pretty must lost in all three departments.  We didn’t bowl near our normal standards – the 24 extras, the bad start with the ball.  I think we were pretty sloppy in the field to be honest – had a couple of misfields and definitely not up to our usual standards.  With the bat as well, we didn’t really have any partnerships to speak of, so yes, pretty much a bad day at the office in all three departments,” Wolvaardt said.

Even though the Proteas struggled against an inspired spin attack from Bangladesh, Wolvaardt says their track record in Pakistan, with similar conditions and playing styles, shows that the Proteas are able to play spin and play it well.

“Bangladesh are a quality side and they are allowed to play well and have good games. They played a lot better than us today,” she said.   

South Africa and Bangladesh will play their next ODI at the JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom tomorrow. The match starts at 14:00.

OFM Sport