South African cricketer Corbin Bosch etched his name in the annals of cricket history on his Test debut against Pakistan at SuperSport Park in Centurion. Bosch became the first South African player to achieve the single record on his Test debut, making him the 16th player to achieve this rare combination.
A memorable debut for Corbin Bosh
Bosch’s introduction to Test cricket was spectacular. He marked his entry by dismissing Pakistan’s captain, Shan Masoodwith his first delivery, becoming the fifth South African to claim a wicket with the first ball of his Test career. His bowling figures in the innings were an impressive 4/63, indicating his potential as a major asset to the South African bowling attack.
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Debutant’s batting heroics
However, it was with the bat where Bosch really shined. Coming at a critical time for South Africa at 213/8, he played a counter-attacking innings, scoring an unbeaten 81 off just 93 balls. His knock was combined with 15 fours, contributing significantly to South Africa’s first innings total of 301, giving 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 South Africa’s highest scoring debutant batting at number nine or below.
Bosh’s unique record
Bosch’s achievement put him in a select group of cricketers who have made such an impact on debut. He joined notable cricketers like Tim Southee and Wanindu Hasarangawho also managed to take 4 wickets and smash a half-century in his first outing in Test cricket. This feat, which combines significant contributions with both bat and ball, underlines Bosch’s all-round capabilities and marks him out as someone for the future.
Players who score fifty and take more than 4 wickets on their Test debut (since 2000):
- Tim Southee: 5/55 and 77* against England, 2008
- Wanindu Hasaranga: 4/171 and 59 vs South Africa, 2020
- Corbin Bosch: 4/63 and 81* against Pakistan, 2024