Bangladesh slump to 3 wickets down in second innings against Australia

Bangladesh’s batting woes continued in the second innings of the Mackay Test as they lost three early wickets after being set a daunting target by Australia.

Resuming their second innings 146 runs behind, Bangladesh reached 39 for three after 11 overs, with captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and veteran Mushfiqur Rahim at the crease.

Mitchell Starc struck twice in the third over to leave Bangladesh reeling at 5 for two. He first had opener Shadman Islam caught at point by Marnus Labuschagne before clean-bowling Mominul Haque with the very next delivery.

Najmul and Tanzid Hasan then attempted to steady the innings, but Pat Cummins ended their partnership in the eighth over. Tanzid edged a delivery towards third man, where Starc completed the catch.

Earlier, Bangladesh’s pace attack had produced a remarkable turnaround after Australia were bowled out for 210. Left-arm pacer Shariful Islam claimed a career-best seven for 48—the best innings figures by a Bangladeshi seamer against an ICC Full Member side.

Australia resumed the second day on 165 for eight. Shariful removed Cameron Green for 67 in the eighth over after Bangladesh successfully reviewed an on-field not-out decision for lbw.

Nathan Lyon and Josh Hazlewood added 24 for the final wicket before Taijul Islam dismissed Hazlewood for six, caught by Shadman. Lyon remained unbeaten on 32 off 62 balls.

Bangladesh had earlier been dismissed for just 64 in their first innings, with Starc taking six wickets and Cummins three.