Corbin Bosch earns R Ashwin’s praise for heroic performance against Pakistan

New Delhi: Corbin Bosch, 30, made a spectacular debut for South Africa on the first day of the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan at SuperSport Park, Centurion. The 24-year-old all-rounder, playing his maiden Test match on Thursday, took a wicket with his very first ball, removing Pakistan’s opener Shan Masood and instantly making his mark on the game.

Bosch’s remarkable debut brought back memories of R Ashwin’s remarks about him from three years ago, when he was part of the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the IPL.

Ashwin lauded Bosch on X (formerly Twitter), remarking, “Corbin Bosch was at RR 3 years ago and was the kind who was chasing excellence. Has started off well with the ball but it’s worth remembering that he averages 40 plus with bat in FC.”

Corbin Bosch was at RR 3 years ago and was the kind who was chasing excellence.
Has started off well with the ball but it’s worth remembering that he averages 40 plus with bat in FC . #SAvPAK pic.twitter.com/3HF9jax8ie

— Ashwin (@ashwinravi99) December 26, 2024

Bosch’s strong first-class record was showcased on the international stage, validating Ashwin’s earlier predictions.

Wicket off the first ball of Test career for South Africa:

Bosch’s bowling was crucial for South Africa, as he finished the first two sessions with figures of 4/63, claiming the important wickets of Shan Masood, Saud Shakeel, Aamer Jamal, and Naseem Shah. By tea, Pakistan were struggling at 209-9. Although Kamran Ghulam (54) and Aamer Jamal (28) provided some resistance, the disciplined and aggressive spells from Bosch and Dane Paterson kept a tight grip on Pakistan’s innings.

For Bosch, whose drive for improvement has been widely praised, this debut reflected his dedication, consistent effort, and unyielding commitment to excellence.