Bangladesh will chase a maiden ODI series win over Australia when the two teams meet in the second match in Dhaka, after taking a 1-0 lead with a commanding victory in the first ODI on Tuesday. The win put Bangladesh on the verge of a landmark result, with history now within reach against one of cricket’s most established sides.
Bangladesh’s first-ODI performance was built on contributions across the lineup and a ruthless bowling effort. After losing Saif Hassan early, Tanzid Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto steadied the innings and gave the home side a strong foundation. The middle order then took over, with Mosaddek Hossain producing the standout performance in his first international appearance since 2022. He scored an unbeaten 86 and later returned to take two wickets, underlining his value in both departments. Tawhid Hridoy also played an important role as Bangladesh pushed into a competitive position.
The bowling attack then finished the job. Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman struck early to rattle Australia’s top order, before Nahid Rana blew apart the middle and lower order with pace and aggression. Rana repeatedly hit speeds touching 150kph, forcing the Australian tail into survival mode. His four wickets capped a fine all-round effort from Bangladesh’s pace unit, which also benefited from the control and discipline of Taskin and Mustafizur.
Australia’s bowlers had briefly put Bangladesh under pressure, but their fielding let them down badly. Mosaddek was dropped three times, while Shanto was also offered a reprieve. Those missed chances proved costly, and Australia’s sloppy fielding only deepened the damage in a poor all-round display.
One positive for Australia was Cameron Green, who made a half-century batting at No. 6. His innings, however, raised questions about whether he could be moved higher in the order. Even so, Australia are unlikely to make major changes for the second ODI. Alex Carey said after the first match that the team must stay calm, treat the quick turnaround as a chance to reset, and look to respond immediately.
Mosaddek Hossain and Nathan Ellis are the players in focus. Mosaddek gave Bangladesh the middle-order stability they have long needed, rotating strike well before accelerating with powerful shots through the off side and down the ground. He also added switch-hits to his attacking range. For Australia, Ellis was the most effective bowler in the first ODI, using early movement and later slower deliveries to keep Bangladesh in check. He has previously succeeded in Bangladesh conditions and will again be central to Australia’s hopes.
Bangladesh are expected to name the same XI, while Australia may consider additions such as Todd Murphy, Matthew Kuhnemann, Ben Dwarshuis or Oliver Peake. Another batting-friendly surface is expected in Dhaka, although rain could interfere with Thursday’s match.
