Darwin Test, Bangladesh lead by 228 despite Hazlewood’s six wickets

Bangladesh produced a remarkable batting display against Australia in the Darwin Test, taking a commanding 228-run first-innings lead despite Josh Hazlewood’s six-wicket haul.

Bangladesh were bowled out for 426 after showing tremendous resilience against Australia’s pace attack. Mehidy Hasan Miraz played the starring role in the lower order, frustrating the Australian bowlers for nearly 50 overs and completing his 12th Test half-century.

Hazlewood eventually ended Mehidy’s stubborn resistance after lunch on the third day before removing Taijul Islam’s partner, completing six wickets in the innings. His performance also brought a major personal milestone as he became only the ninth Australian bowler to reach 300 Test wickets.

The fast bowler also claimed his 14th five-wicket haul in Test cricket. Remarkably, all four wickets to fall during the third day belonged to Hazlewood, keeping Australia in the contest despite Bangladesh’s substantial advantage.

Mehidy was well supported by Mahmoud, Taijul Islam and Taskin Ahmed as Bangladesh continued to stretch Australia’s bowling attack. The visitors also benefited from Australia’s fielding lapses, with the hosts dropping five catches during the innings.

Earlier, Bangladesh had built a strong platform through Tanzid Hasan’s maiden Test century and a determined half-century from captain Najmul Hossain Shanto.

Australia’s first innings had already ended in disappointment after Hasan Mahmud claimed six wickets, exposing weaknesses in the home side’s batting.

Bangladesh’s huge lead now puts Australia under considerable pressure. With their bowlers needing early breakthroughs, the hosts face a demanding task to recover momentum and keep the Darwin Test within reach.