Miraz's brilliant ton gives Bangladesh firm grip on Day 1 of Warm-up match

Mehidy Hasan Miraz struck a composed unbeaten century as Bangladesh recovered from an early collapse to seize control on the opening day of their three-day tour match against the Cricket Australia XI at Marrara Oval on Wednesday (August 5).

Resuming their preparations for the upcoming Test series, Bangladesh were bowled out for 263 in the first innings, thanks largely to Miraz's unbeaten 109. In reply, the Cricket Australia XI reached 51 for 2 at stumps, leaving Bangladesh with a commanding 212-run first-innings lead.

Bangladesh's innings got off to a disastrous start after electing to bat, with opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim and veteran Mushfiqur Rahim both dismissed without scoring. Shadman Islam (31), captain Najmul Hossain Shanto (37), Mominul Haque (16), Soumya Sarkar (16) and Amit Hasan (15) all made starts but failed to convert them into significant contributions.

Miraz, however, anchored the innings with a calm and authoritative knock. With Bangladesh reeling at 194 for 9, he found valuable support from Khaled Ahmed as the pair added 69 runs for the final wicket, frustrating the home attack.

The Bangladesh all-rounder remained unbeaten on 109 off 141 deliveries, hitting 11 fours and four sixes, while Khaled contributed 15 as the visitors posted a competitive total.

Off-spinner Corey Rocchiccioli was the standout bowler for the Cricket Australia XI, claiming 6 wickets for 83 runs from 24 overs.

The hosts struggled in their reply as Bangladesh's pace attack struck twice early. Hasan Mahmud removed Sam Konstas before Taskin Ahmed clean bowled Campbell Kellaway, reducing the Cricket Australia XI to early trouble.

Curtis Patterson (26*) and Josh Philippe (22*) then steadied the innings with an unbeaten 50-run partnership for the third wicket, taking the hosts to 51 for 2 at the close of play.

Bangladesh will resume Day 2 firmly in control as they continue preparations for the first Test against Australia, which begins in Darwin on August 13.