Summary
- DHAKA: Bangladesh ended a long 21-year drought against Australia in One Day Internationals, clinching a memorable victory in a rain-affected opening match that was decided by the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method.
- In a dramatic contest disrupted by weather, Bangladesh were declared winners by 86 runs after rain stopped play when Australia were well behind the revised target.
- Match officials confirmed that under the DLS calculations, Australia were 86 runs short when the rain ended proceedings, resulting in Bangladesh being awarded the win.
DHAKA: Bangladesh ended a long 21-year drought against Australia in One Day Internationals, clinching a memorable victory in a rain-affected opening match that was decided by the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method.
In a dramatic contest disrupted by weather, Bangladesh were declared winners by 86 runs after rain stopped play when Australia were well behind the revised target.
The home side first posted a strong total of 284 for 8 in their 50 overs, built on crucial contributions from Najmul Hossain Shanto, who scored 67, and Tanzid Hasan, who added a fluent 54. Middle-order batter Mushfiqur Rahim remained unbeaten on 86, anchoring the innings with experience and composure.
Australia’s bowling attack was led by Nathan Ellis, who picked up three wickets, but struggled to contain Bangladesh’s aggressive batting in key phases of the innings.
After the innings break, rain interruptions delayed the start of Australia’s chase. Once play resumed, Bangladesh’s bowlers quickly turned the match in their favour.
Australia were struggling at 191 for 9 in 42.2 overs when heavy rain returned and forced officials to abandon further play. At that stage, they were significantly behind the DLS par score, sealing Bangladesh’s victory.
Fast bowler Nahid Rana delivered a sensational spell, taking four wickets and dismantling Australia’s batting lineup with pace and aggression. His performance proved decisive in swinging momentum firmly towards the hosts.
Australia’s innings saw a lone resistance from Cameron Green, who remained unbeaten on 52, but he received little support from the other end as wickets continued to fall under pressure.
Match officials confirmed that under the DLS calculations, Australia were 86 runs short when the rain ended proceedings, resulting in Bangladesh being awarded the win.
The result carries historic significance, marking Bangladesh’s first ODI victory over Australia in 21 years. Their last win against the five-time world champions came on June 18, 2005, in Cardiff.
Fans erupted in celebration as Bangladesh finally broke the long-standing jinx, with players acknowledging the importance of discipline, planning, and execution in difficult conditions.
Cricket analysts described the win as one of Bangladesh’s most significant ODI achievements, highlighting both their improved bowling depth and growing confidence against top-tier opposition.
The victory is expected to boost Bangladesh’s morale as they continue their international campaign, while Australia will be left reflecting on a rare and unexpected setback in a rain-shortened contest.
We welcome your contributions! Submit your blogs, opinion pieces, press releases, news story pitches, and news features to [email protected] and [email protected]
