By Maksuda Lisa (Dhaka Bureau)
Stories of Asian teams dominating on Australian soil in Test cricket are rare. However, what Bangladesh has achieved over the first two days of the ongoing first Test at Darwin’s Marrara Oval represents a significant milestone and a testament to resilience in cricket history. After dismantling the Australian batting lineup on day one, Bangladesh took firm control with the bat on day two. At the close of the second day, Bangladesh reached 351 for 6 in 110 overs, securing a commanding 153-run lead with four wickets still in hand.
This dual dominance in both bowling and batting marks a proud display of maturity and skill for Bangladesh’s Test cricket.
Tanjid’s Epic Century Against a World-Class Attack
The highlight of the day was the historic century by young left-handed opener Tanjid Hasan Tamim. Playing in only his second Test match, Tanjid became the first Bangladeshi batter to score a Test century on Australian soil. His patient and elegant innings of 101 off 197 balls included 8 boundaries and a towering six.
Known for his aggressive style in white-ball cricket, Tanjid showcased remarkable patience, composure, and classic Test technique in Darwin. He occupied the crease for over five hours against a world-class bowling attack comprising Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Nathan Lyon. Leaving dangerous deliveries outside off-stamp while capitalizing on scoring opportunities, Tanjid demonstrated the rising maturity of Bangladesh’s Test cricket.
Lauding Tanjid’s performance, former Australian captain and legendary batter Ricky Ponting remarked from the commentary panel- ‘I am thoroughly impressed by Tanjid’s patience, solid defense, and disciplined shot selection. Playing such a mature inning against a world-class attack is the hallmark of a rising star.’ Former Australian greats Mark Waugh and Adam Gilchrist also praised his batting display.
Responsible Contributions from Mominul and Shanto
Tanjid’s century was set up by a crucial 102-run partnership for the second wicket with Mominul Haque. Before falling for a well-crafted 49 off 95 balls, Mominul surpassed Tamim Iqbal to become the second-highest run-scorer for Bangladesh in Test cricket history.
Tanjid was then joined by skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto, adding another 93 runs for the third wicket. Shanto batted fluidly, scoring a dynamic 84 off 126 balls featuring 7 fours and a six. Though he missed his century by just 16 runs, his captain’s knock played a pivotal role in placing Bangladesh firmly in the driver’s seat.
The Foundation: Hasan Mahmud’s 6-Wicket Haul
The bedrock of Bangladesh’s strong position was laid on day one by fast bowler Hasan Mahmud. Ripping through the Australian top order, Hasan registered career-best figures of 6 for 55 in 17 overs, including 3 maidens. Supported by Taskin Ahmed and Ebadot Hossain- who took two wickets each-Bangladesh bundled out Australia for just 198 runs in their first innings. Steve Smith was the sole fighter for the hosts with 71 runs.
Lower-Order Resilience and Day 3 Outlook
Australia fought back late in the second session with the second new ball, taking three quick wickets- Shanto (84), Mushfiqur Rahim (36), and Litton Das (0). However, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (32* off 73) and day-one hero Hasan Mahmud (13* off 76) showed immense grit, negotiating the final 24.3 overs safely. Their unbroken 43-run partnership for the seventh wicket completely denied Australia further breakthroughs.
Match Summary at a Glance:
* Australia 1st Innings: 198/10 in 53 overs (*Steve Smith 71; Hasan Mahmud 6/55).
* Bangladesh 1st Innings (Ongoing): 351/6 in 110 overs (*Tanjid 101, Shanto 84, Mominul 49; Lead by 153 runs).
From the perspective of international peace and human-centered journalism, Pressenza views this performance not merely as a sporting contest, but as an inspiration showcasing the determination and athletic progress of teams from the Global South. With a 153-run lead and four wickets intact, Bangladesh will look to extend their lead beyond 200 on day three to put maximum psychological pressure on the hosts.
Maksuda Lisa: Staff Correspondent, Pressenza- Dhaka Bureau.
