AUS vs BAN 2026: ‘One of their finest days’ - Kerry O’Keeffe hails Bangladesh’s dominant bowling display in Darwin Test

Bangladesh delivered a commanding bowling performance on day one of the first Test against Australia in Darwin, restricting the hosts to 198 all out. The match marked Bangladesh's first Test in Australia in 23 years, and the touring side made an immediate impact with the ball on a surface that carried roughly 4 millimetres of grass coverage at the start of play. Pat Cummins chose to bat after winning the toss, but Australia's innings unravelled against sustained pressure from Bangladesh's attack.

Hasan Mahmud claimed a career-best 6-55, while Taskin Ahmed took 2-55 and Ebadot Hossain captured 2-39 as Bangladesh's bowlers maintained discipline throughout Australia's innings. Steve Smith top-scored with 71 off 109 balls, striking seven fours and one six, but he found little support from the middle order. Jake Weatherald made 23 and Travis Head contributed 22 as Australia struggled to build partnerships against the relentless bowling attack.

"This has been one of their finest days in Test cricket," O'Keeffe said as quoted by The Daily Star.

Warner acknowledges Bangladesh's relentless bowling attack

Steve Smith offered the main resistance with a hard-fought 71, but Australia kept losing wickets and were bowled out for 198 in just 53 overs. Former opener David Warner was particularly impressed by Bangladesh’s accuracy.

"I've played against and I've seen a lot of cricket, and a lot of teams that have come out here. And I have to say, it's probably the first time I've seen any opposition come and hit the mark with their bowlers straight away. They're relentless. It's not easy to do in Australia, and they've done that," said Warner.

Bangladesh's reply at stumps

Australia were bowled out for 198, with Hasan Mahmud starring with 6/55, while Taskin Ahmed and Ebadot Hossain claimed two wickets each. Bangladesh reached 96/1 by stumps, with Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Mominul Haque unbeaten. Mark Waugh noted that batting conditions could improve as the Test progresses.

“I think it's going to develop into a good batting pitch, especially days two and three. Not that it's been a bad pitch today at all," said Waugh.