The Australia vs Bangladesh first Test has delivered a dramatic opening day in Darwin, with Bangladesh producing a stunning bowling performance to put the hosts under immediate pressure. Australia, after winning the toss and choosing to bat first, were bowled out for just 198, giving Bangladesh an excellent opportunity to take control of the match.
The two-match Test series began on August 13 at Marrara Stadium in Darwin and is particularly significant for Bangladesh, who are touring Australia for the first time in 18 years. The series is also part of the 2025–27 World Test Championship cycle.
Hasan Mahmud Produces a Brilliant Spell
The biggest story of the opening day was undoubtedly Bangladesh fast bowler Hasan Mahmud. He delivered a career-best performance of 6 wickets for 55 runs, repeatedly troubling Australia’s batting lineup and helping Bangladesh dismiss the home side for only 198.
Hasan’s spell was particularly impressive because Australia entered the match with a highly experienced batting order. His ability to maintain pressure and take important wickets prevented Australia from building the kind of first-innings total they would have wanted.
The conditions also appeared to assist Bangladesh’s bowlers. Early moisture in the pitch created opportunities for movement, and Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling and sharp fielding allowed them to make the most of those conditions.
Steve Smith Stands Tall for Australia
While Australia’s top order struggled, Steve Smith provided the major resistance. The experienced batter scored a determined 71 and was the main reason Australia managed to move towards the 200-run mark.
Smith’s innings was especially important because several other Australian batters failed to make significant contributions. Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne and Cameron Green were among those who could not turn their starts into substantial scores.
For Australia, the performance will raise questions about their batting approach. Losing wickets regularly meant the pressure continued to build, and Bangladesh never allowed the hosts to establish a long partnership.
Bangladesh Make a Strong Start
Bangladesh’s response with the bat was much more encouraging. By the end of the opening day, they had reached 96 for 1, leaving themselves just 102 runs behind Australia’s first innings total.
Tanzid Hasan and Mominul Haque were unbeaten at stumps after building a valuable partnership. Their calm approach helped Bangladesh finish the day in a strong position and ensured that the momentum remained firmly on their side.
The only Bangladesh wicket to fall was Shadman Islam, who was dismissed by Mitchell Starc. Despite that setback, Bangladesh’s overall position at the close of play was extremely positive.
Mitchell Starc Creates History
Although Bangladesh dominated much of the day, Mitchell Starc still produced a memorable individual achievement. His wicket of Shadman Islam took him past Rangana Herath’s tally of Test wickets, making Starc the most successful left-arm bowler in Test history.
However, Starc’s achievement could not hide Australia’s difficult day. Their bowlers now face the challenge of restricting Bangladesh before the visitors build a significant first-innings lead.
What Went Wrong for Australia?
Australia’s decision to bat first appeared reasonable at the toss, but their batting performance did not match expectations. The team struggled to handle Bangladesh’s disciplined attack, while several important players were dismissed before they could settle.
The failure of the top order will be one of the biggest talking points after the opening day. Australia’s experienced bowling attack is capable of creating problems for Bangladesh, but the home side will need a much stronger batting performance in the next innings.
For Bangladesh, meanwhile, this is exactly the type of start they would have wanted from their first Test in Australia in many years.
Day 2 Could Decide the Momentum
Bangladesh will enter the second day with plenty of confidence. At 96 for 1, they are in a position to move past Australia’s total and establish a first-innings lead.
Australia will desperately need early wickets. Starc, Pat Cummins and the rest of the bowling attack will be expected to produce breakthroughs quickly and prevent Bangladesh’s batters from taking complete control.
With the match currently finely balanced but momentum favouring Bangladesh, the second day could become crucial.
Final Verdict
The opening day of Australia vs Bangladesh in Darwin has already produced a major talking point. Australia were dismissed for 198, Hasan Mahmud claimed a remarkable 6 for 55, and Bangladesh finished the day at 96 for 1.
For Bangladesh, it was a dream start. For Australia, it was a warning.
With only 102 runs separating the teams at stumps and nine Bangladesh wickets remaining, the visitors have a genuine opportunity to take a first-innings lead. The next session could determine whether Bangladesh turn their impressive opening day into a historic Test victory push or whether Australia’s experienced bowling attack fights back.