Crushing win sees Proteas whitewash Bangladesh

A second consecutive fourth innings seven wicket haul from Maharaj saw South Africa skittle the visitors out for just 80 in their second innings after Dean Elgar had set them an improbable 413 to win the test but with Maharaj taking seven and Simon Harmer taking three, the Proteas cantered home in the first session on day four.

Maharaj bagged nine wickets in the test match and also scored the highest score of the match when he made 84 in the first innings which proved his worth to the national test side. He also brought up 150 test wickets in the second innings.

Captain Dean Elgar didn’t use anyone else besides his two spinners in the second innings and was full of praise for his newly discovered spin duo.

"What a combination that is," he said after his second series win of the summer. "It's great to see two guys experienced in their careers going about their business at the highest level."

Interestingly now the Proteas will welcome back a number of players for their winter tour to England but Elgar said he cannot guarantee any of those players returning from the IPL will walk straight back into the side.

"People say we were playing the series with a weakened squad but I don't see it as that. 

"I see that as giving guys opportunities at this level, testing their skills and seeing where they are as an international cricketer.

"They are putting their hands up and putting pressure on the guys who aren't here.

"I think the guys who have played right now have made a massive statement."

Maharaj was also given the player of the series award for his 16 wickets at an average of 12 and an economy rate of 2.3.

Harmer took 13 wickets in the series while Taijul Islam, who only played in the second test match, finished third on the wickets table with nine sticks.

The Proteas handed Khaya Zondo a test debut when he had to become the Proteas’ first Covid-19 substitution after SJ Erwee tested positive on Sunday night.

Glenton Stuurman also came into the team to earn another test cap on Monday when Wiaan Mulder also returned a positive Covid-19 test.

The Proteas will only return to international cricket when they head to England for a three ODI, three T20 and three test matches starting on 19 July with the ODI series.

Amongst that series they will also play Ireland in two T20 Internationals.