DHAKA: Bangladesh produced a memorable performance to defeat Australia by 86 runs in the opening match of the three-match ODI series, securing their first victory over the visitors in 21 years.
The match, played at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka, was affected by rain and decided via the Duckworth–Lewis–Stern (DLS) method, but Bangladesh remained in control for most of the contest.
Batting first, Bangladesh posted a competitive total of 284 for 8 in their 50 overs. Returning batter Mushfiqur Rahim played a standout innings, scoring an unbeaten 86 off 70 balls, including seven fours and three sixes. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto contributed a solid 67, while Tanzid Hasan provided a strong start at the top of the order.
A key 96-run partnership between Shanto and Tanzid laid the foundation for the innings, followed by a crucial stand involving Mushfiqur and Towhid Hridoy that helped Bangladesh accelerate in the middle and death overs.
Australia’s bowling attack was led by Nathan Ellis, who took three wickets, but the visitors were also hampered by poor fielding, dropping four catches at critical moments.
Chasing 285, Australia struggled from the outset. Opener Matt Short was dismissed on the first ball of the innings, while Marnus Labuschagne managed only a single run. Captain Josh Inglis and other top-order batters failed to build partnerships under pressure from Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling attack.
Fast bowler Nahid Rana produced a fiery spell, taking four wickets and regularly troubling the Australian batters with pace exceeding 150 km/h. Mushfiqur Rahim also contributed with the ball, taking two wickets, while Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman chipped in with key breakthroughs.
Cameron Green top-scored for Australia with 52 runs, followed by Alex Carey’s 47, but their efforts were not enough to prevent a collapse. Australia were 9 wickets down for 191 runs when rain interrupted play, and Bangladesh were declared winners by 86 runs under the DLS method.
This victory marks only Bangladesh’s second ODI win against Australia, and their first ever on home soil, adding a historic chapter to their cricketing achievements.
