Bangladesh pulled off a heist against Australia and defeated the 2023 World Test Championship winners in the first game of the two-Test series. Bangladesh,
who won their first Test Down Under, chased down the target of 57 at the loss of just one wicket. Bangladesh dominated the proceedings from the very first session and didn't let Australia bounce back. Wasim Jaffer, who has worked with Bangladesh cricket, reacted to their win and wrote that it was an "unbelievable upset." "What a phenomenal victory for Bangladesh! Beating Australia in Australia for the first time is a historic achievement and a huge moment for Bangladesh cricket. Special mention to Tanzid Hasan, Hasan Mahmud, Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Captain Shanto for their terrific performances and leadership," Jaffer wrote on X. "Congratulations to each and everyone involved. This is more than just a win; it’s a statement of Bangladesh’s growth on the world stage. What an unbelievable upset!" he added. Pacer Hasan Mahmud was bestowed with the Player of the Match award for his heroics. The right-arm pacer took a six-fer in the first innings as Bangladesh bowled out Australia for a mere total of 198. Bangladesh took a 228-run lead after putting on a total of 426 on the board. Much was expected from Australia, but they managed to score 284 in their second innings, thus setting a target of 57. Bangladesh completed the chase in 14.2 overs. Former Bangladesh captain Mominul Haque completed the chase for the visitors with a boundary off Beau Webster.
Pat Cummins on Australia's defeat
Australia captain Pat Cummins gave a blunt response to the defeat and said that there are no excuses for it. Speaking at the post-match presentation ceremony, Cummins said: "I thought it was excellent. So, yeah, no excuses. They played really well. You know, I thought the day one wicket was doing a little bit early, but obviously got to try and find a way to bat a little bit longer than we did, and then, yeah, just couldn't penetrate with the ball. But, yeah, I thought they played really well."
The second Test of the series will be played from August 22 to 26 in Mackay. A win or a drawn game will see Bangladesh become the second Asian team to win a Test series Down Under.
Disclaimer: This article summarizes a report by Wasim Jaffer. While Times Now has verified the public data presented, the interpretations of 'intent' remain those of the creator.
