Bangladesh secured a landmark nine-wicket victory against Australia on the fourth day of the first Test in Darwin, marking one of the most significant upsets in Test cricket history.
Chasing a target of 57 runs, Bangladesh reached the score with Mominul Haque hitting the winning boundary, securing their first Test win on Australian soil. The triumph marks a historic moment for Bangladesh, which has competed in Test cricket for 26 years and had previously lost both their Test series in Australia. Australia entered the match as the top-ranked Test nation.
The visitors controlled much of the match, building a substantial first-innings lead. Spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz was instrumental on the final day, taking 5-66 to dismiss Australia for 284 in their second innings. Despite a resilient 104 from all-rounder Cameron Green, Australia's efforts were not enough to avert defeat.
Mahmud Hasan, a seam bowler, was named player of the match for his performances, taking 6-55 in the first innings and 3-56 in the second. "This is the biggest win so far for Bangladesh in any format," stated captain Najmul Hossain Shanto. "We did a lot of hard work."
Miraz's crucial contribution extended beyond his bowling. He also scored 65 runs in the first innings, aiding Bangladesh's lead. In the second innings, he dismissed key Australian batter Steve Smith early in their second innings. He continued his impact by removing wicketkeeper Alex Carey for 30 and Beau Webster for five, before the Australian lower order offered some resistance.
A 43-run partnership between Green and Mitchell Starc was broken when Taskin Ahmed took a catch behind the stumps off Starc's bat. Green's century, his third in Test cricket on home soil, came amidst scrutiny of his position in the team. Miraz eventually dismissed Nathan Lyon, leaving Bangladesh on the brink of victory.
Despite losing opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim for a duck early in their pursuit, Mominul Haque's unbeaten 30 and Shadman Islam's 25 saw Bangladesh comfortably over the line.
Australian captain Pat Cummins acknowledged the opponent's performance, stating, "They outplayed us in all facets, they were patient and disciplined." He added, "I thought our prep was spot-on, no excuses."
This series marks the first of a two-Test series, with the second match scheduled to commence on August 22.