Australia Stumble Again As Bangladesh Push Lead Beyond 140 Runs

Australia’s bowlers had chances to pull the innings back, but the scoreboard kept moving. Tanzid Hasan gave Bangladesh the platform with a composed 101, his maiden Test century on Australian soil, while Najmul Hossain Shanto added 84. Mominul Haque also looked set for a big score before falling for 49.

The bigger concern for Australia is how little pressure they have created since the first session. Mitchell Starc finished with 2/60 from 19 overs and Nathan Lyon took 1/91 from 23.5. Pat Cummins picked up one wicket, but Bangladesh have still managed to build a commanding advantage.

Australia’s Attack Under Pressure

The Bangladesh first innings has now moved 140 runs ahead, and Australia’s fielding side faces a difficult final stretch. Mehidy Hasan Miraz was unbeaten on 19 from 41 balls, with Hasan Mahmud alongside him on 11 from 47.

Those numbers tell only part of the story. Australia have used their attack for long spells, yet Bangladesh have repeatedly found ways to survive. Lyon has conceded heavily without breaking the innings open, while Starc has had to carry a significant workload.

The Bangladesh first innings could become decisive if the lower order adds another 40 or 50 runs. A lead approaching 180 would put Australia under enormous pressure when they return to bat.

That leaves a serious question hanging over the hosts. Was the bowling plan good enough for this surface, or did Australia simply fail to adapt quickly enough?

The Bangladesh vs Australia first Test has already produced a result most Australian supporters would have wanted to avoid after their 198 all out. Hasan Mahmud’s six-wicket haul on the opening day set the tone, and Bangladesh’s batters have followed it with patience.

Now the visitors are within touching distance of a huge first-innings advantage. Australia need wickets. Another hour of resistance could push this Test into a different territory.

Bangladesh vs Australia first Test has turned into a serious examination of Australia’s bowling attack, while the visitors suddenly have a chance to dictate the rest of the match.

Watch the Bangladesh vs Australia first Test Day 1 highlights and catch all the key moments from the opening day.