By Maksuda Lisa (Dhaka Bureau)
The Bangladesh National Cricket Team stands on the precipice of one of the most historic achievements in its Test cricket history. At the close of Day 3 in the ongoing Test match against host nation Australia in Darwin, the global cricket powerhouse finds itself firmly on the back foot. After securing a commanding 228-run lead in the first innings, Bangladesh pushed Australia into further trouble in their second innings, leaving the hosts four wickets down and putting a landmark victory within Bangladesh’s grasp.
From the opening day, the visitors have dominated the contest. Bangladesh’s pace bowler Hasan Mahmud set the tone early, dismantling the Australian batting lineup to bowl them out for just 198 runs in their first innings. In response, Bangladesh mounted a formidable total of 426 runs, anchored by a historic century from young opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim and a resilient 65-run contribution from all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Despite Australian right-arm pacer Josh Hazlewood claiming six wickets, the hosts were unable to stem Bangladesh’s scoring momentum.
Trailing by 228 runs, Australia’s second innings got off to a turbulent start against Bangladesh’s relentless pace and spin combination. Hasan Mahmud, who took six wickets in the first innings, struck early once again by dismissing both Australian openers, Jake Weatherald and Travis Head, in quick succession.
The Bangladeshi spin attack maintained the pressure on Australia’s middle order. Left-arm spinner Taijul Islam removed Marnus Labuschagne for 31, while the experienced Steve Smith fell to Mehidy Hasan Miraz for 44, leaving the hosts in severe difficulty.
A late counter-offensive by Cameron Green (43*) and wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey (19*) offered Australia some stability before stumps. However, with Australia ending the day at 161/4, the hosts still trail Bangladesh by 67 runs with six wickets remaining in hand.
Heading into Day 4, Bangladesh’s primary objective will be to break the remaining partnerships quickly and clean up the tail to minimize any potential fourth-innings target. Bangladesh is now just a few key wickets away from scripting history on Australian soil, with the opening session of Day 4 likely to decide the trajectory of the match.
Match Summary (End of Day 3)
* Australia (1st Innings): 198/10.
* Bangladesh (1st Innings): 426/10.
* Australia (2nd Innings): 161/4 (Green 43*, Smith 44, Labuschagne 31; Hasan Mahmud 2 wickets).
* Match Status: Australia trail by 67 runs; Bangladesh need 6 wickets.
Maksuda Lisa: Staff Correspondent, Pressenza- Dhaka Bureau.