Bangladesh in control of first Test against Australia after pacer Hasan Mahmud's six wicket haul
Darwin, August 13
Bangladesh pacer Hasan Mahmud said he was excited to play against Australia and focused on maintaining his line and length during his career-best six-wicket haul on the opening day of the first Test at Darwin, on Thursday.
Mahmud claimed a career-best 6/55 as Australia were dismissed for a paltry 198 in 53 overs at Marrara Oval.
Bangladesh were 96 for one at stumps with Mominul was unbeaten on 35 and Tanzid at 32, still trailing by 102 runs.
Shadman Islam fell to Mitchell Starc for 20.
After the end of the day's play, Mahmud said he was excited to face one of the world's best teams and focused on maintaining his line and length, following the captain's instructions and praising his fellow bowlers for their efforts.
"I was very excited to play with Australia because they are one of the best teams in the world. And obviously, get the opportunity you know to play this in this condition as well. And I just try to keep my ball on line and length, maintain the process, and just follow what the captain says and just follow that. They (supporting bowlers) tried very best and they did well as well," the Bangladesh pacer said in a video posted by Fox Cricket.
Australia, after winning the toss and opting to bat, made a steady start at 45/0 but soon lost wickets in quick succession. Hasan removed Jake Weatherald for 23 and Travis Head for 22, while Ebadot Hossain and Taskin Ahmed also chipped in with two wickets each.
Steve Smith offered the most resistance for Australia, scoring 71 off 109 balls with seven fours and a six. However, Hasan returned to dismiss Smith and complete his third five-wicket haul in Test cricket before cleaning up the Australian tail.
Australia were eventually bowled out for 198, their lowest Test total against Bangladesh.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is an incredible story for world cricket! Bangladesh are no longer just the underdogs; they have genuine fast bowlers who can exploit conditions anywhere. Hasan's six-wicket haul is a testament to how far they've come. Australia will have to regroup, but credit must go to the entire Bangladeshi bowling attack for keeping the pressure on.
Hats off to Hasan Mahmud, but a word of caution for Bangladesh: Steve Smith's 71 kept them in the game, and these conditions can change quickly. Mominul and Tanzid need to bat long tomorrow. In subcontinent cricket, we know how crucial the first innings lead is. Let's hope they don't repeat the mistakes we've seen from other Asian teams in Australia. Still, a great day for them! 🙌
I remember when people used to say Bangladesh only perform at home. This performance proves they are a different team now. Hasan's control on day one against a strong batting lineup like Australia's is commendable. But the real test will be batting under pressure on Day 2. India's experience in Australia shows us that you need to grab these opportunities early, and Bangladesh seem to be doing exactly that.
As a cricket fan, this is refreshing to see. Australia being bowled out for under 200 at home by a side like Bangladesh shows the growing depth of cricket worldwide. Hasan's focus on the process and following the captain's plan is exactly what our coaches in India emphasize. Let's see if Bangladesh can finish the job in this Test. Great start though!
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