South African cricketer Corbin Bosch etched his name into the annals of cricket history on his Test debut against Pakistan at SuperSport Park in Centurion. Bosch became the first player from South Africa to achieve the unique record on their Test debut, making him the 16th player overall to accomplish the rare combination.
A memorable debut for Corbin Bosh
Bosch’s introduction to Test cricket was nothing short of spectacular. He marked his entry by dismissing Pakistan’s captain, Shan Masood, with his very first delivery, becoming only the fifth South African to claim a wicket with the first ball of their Test career. His bowling figures for the innings were an impressive 4/63, signaling his potential as a significant asset to the South African bowling attack.
Also READ: Twitter reactions: South Africa takes charge over Pakistan as Corbin Bosch delivers a stellar performance on Day 2 of Centurion Test
Batting heroics from the debutant
However, it was with the bat that Bosch truly shone. Coming in at a critical juncture for South Africa at 213/8, he played a counter-attacking innings, scoring an unbeaten 81 off just 93 balls. His knock was laced with 15 fours, contributing significantly to South Africa’s first-innings total of 301, which gave them a 90-run lead. This performance not only highlighted his batting prowess but also set a new benchmark for South African cricket, as he became the highest scoring debutant from South Africa batting at number nine or below.
The unique record of Bosh
Bosch’s achievement placed him in a select group of cricketers who have made such an impact on debut. He joined the likes of notable cricketers like Tim Southee and Wanindu Hasaranga, who have also managed taking 4 wickets and smashing a half-century on their first outing in Test cricket. This feat, combining significant contributions with both bat and ball, underscores Bosch’s all-round capabilities and marks him as one for the future.
Players to score a fifty and take 4-plus wickets on Test debut (Since 2000):
- Tim Southee: 5/55 & 77* vs England, 2008
- Wanindu Hasaranga: 4/171 & 59 vs South Africa, 2020
- Corbin Bosch: 4/63 & 81* vs Pakistan, 2024
