Tony de Zorzi faces a different task this time.

Recalled after a hamstring injury, the left-hander is competing with Zubayr Hamza for the No 3 position against Bangladesh. His previous Test century against these opponents came from the opening slot, in conditions far removed from those expected on the Highveld.

Still, the qualities required during his 177 in Chattogram in October 2024 remain useful wherever he bats: patience, sound judgement and the willingness to keep going after reaching a milestone.

The innings began with an escape. On six, De Zorzi offered a difficult chance to debutant wicketkeeper Mahidul Islam. Bangladesh would spend much of the next two days regretting it.

After Aiden Markram’s dismissal, De Zorzi added 201 with Tristan Stubbs for the second wicket. He reached his maiden Test hundred from 146 balls and finished the opening day unbeaten on 141.

His methods against spin were central to the innings. He swept, used his feet and found ways to score without allowing the bowlers to dictate every exchange. A sweep for four off Mehidy Hasan Miraz brought up the hundred.

The physical demands were considerable.

De Zorzi struggled with cramp in the heat and humidity, with Stubbs later explaining that his partner’s forearm had begun troubling him soon after lunch. Stubbs also credited De Zorzi’s calmness with helping him through his own nervous start.

Returning the next morning, De Zorzi extended his innings to 177 before Taijul Islam trapped him lbw. He had faced 269 deliveries, hit 12 fours and four sixes, and spent more than seven hours at the crease.

Those runs provide a memorable chapter in his career, although they offer no guarantee of selection now. A place at first drop brings its own demands, particularly when an early wicket exposes the incoming batsman to a new ball.

What Chattogram demonstrated was his capacity to turn an opportunity into a long innings, even when batting became physically uncomfortable.

If De Zorzi gets the nod, that endurance will be worth drawing upon. The opposition will be familiar. The challenge will be fresh.

Photo: Sameer Ali Getty Images