In a landmark performance that has electrified the cricketing world, South African all-rounder Corbin Bosch etched his name into history by becoming the first South African in 23 years to achieve the rare double of scoring a century and taking five wickets in a single Test match. The feat came during the second Test against Bangladesh at Centurion, where Bosch showcased his exceptional all-round prowess, joining an elite list of legends who have achieved this remarkable milestone in Test cricket.
A Match-Defining Performance
Bosch, 29, scored a resilient 113 runs off 176 balls, rescuing South Africa from a shaky 167/6 to post a formidable first innings total of 398. Batting with the lower order, he struck 14 fours and 2 sixes, exhibiting composure and clean hitting against Bangladesh’s disciplined attack.
With the ball, Bosch decimated the visitors by claiming 5 wickets for 47 runs in 18 overs, swinging the match decisively in South Africa’s favour as Bangladesh were bowled out for 216, handing the hosts a massive innings and 132-run victory.
Corbin Bosch’s Match Stats
| Discipline | Performance |
|---|---|
| Batting | 113 runs (176 balls, 14×4, 2×6) |
| Bowling | 5 wickets for 47 runs (18 overs, 4 maidens) |
First South African In Over Two Decades
Bosch’s feat makes him the first South African since Jacques Kallis in 2002 (vs West Indies) to achieve this double. Kallis scored 110 and took 5/90 in that memorable Cape Town Test. The rarity of the achievement underlines Bosch’s value as a genuine all-rounder for the Proteas as they build towards the upcoming World Test Championship cycle.
Reactions From The Cricket World
Mark Boucher (Former South Africa Coach)
“Incredible from Corbin. We’ve always known his potential. To score a century and take five wickets in the same Test shows mental toughness and all-round skill.”
Shaun Pollock (Commentator)
“South Africa have been waiting for an all-rounder like him post Kallis. This performance will boost his confidence massively.”
Bangladesh Captain Litton Das
“He changed the game single-handedly. We were in the contest until he took it away with bat and ball.”
What Bosch Said After The Historic Feat
In the post-match presentation, an emotional Bosch dedicated his performance to his late father, former South Africa pacer Tertius Bosch, who passed away in 2000:
“It’s special. I’ve dreamt of this since I was a kid. I know Dad would be proud. I just wanted to contribute for the team and winning at home makes it sweeter.”
Elite Club: Players With Century + Five-Wicket Haul In Same Test
| Player | Team | Match Details |
|---|---|---|
| Sir Ian Botham | England | Multiple times (1978, 1980, 1981) |
| Jacques Kallis | South Africa | vs West Indies, Cape Town 2002 |
| Garfield Sobers | West Indies | vs India, 1966 |
| Mushtaq Mohammad | Pakistan | vs New Zealand, 1973 |
| Shakib Al Hasan | Bangladesh | vs Zimbabwe, 2014 |
| Corbin Bosch | South Africa | vs Bangladesh, Centurion 2025 |
Bosch’s Rise As South Africa’s All-Round Star
Originally known for his white-ball exploits with Titans and Rajasthan Royals in IPL, Bosch worked relentlessly on his red-ball game:
- Domestic Average: Batting 41.2, Bowling 24.6 in last two CSA seasons
- Recent Series vs Sri Lanka: Scored two fifties and picked 8 wickets across two Tests
South Africa’s Test captain Temba Bavuma hailed his contribution:
“This is what world-class teams need – match-winning all-rounders. Corbin has given us perfect balance.”
What’s Next For Bosch And South Africa?
With South Africa set to tour Australia later this year, Bosch’s emergence strengthens their chances to challenge the mighty hosts. His ability to bat at No.6 and bowl long spells gives the Proteas tactical flexibility and depth in both departments.
Final Takeaway
Corbin Bosch’s century and five-wicket haul will be remembered as one of the greatest all-round performances in South African cricket history. Beyond statistics, it signals the arrival of a player ready to shoulder the legacy of Proteas greats like Kallis and Pollock. For fans, it is a moment of pride, and for South African cricket, a glimpse into a stronger, more balanced Test future.
Disclaimer: Player quotes sourced from official match presentations and team media interactions. For detailed match scorecards and series updates, visit CSA and ICC platforms.
