Wasim Akram hails Bangladesh’s historic Test triumph in Australia

Pakistan great Wasim Akram has praised Bangladesh’s landmark nine-wicket Test victory over Australia, describing the result as a major sign of the Tigers’ progress in the longest format.

Akram, one of the finest fast bowlers in cricket history, singled out Bangladesh pacer Hasan Mahmud for particular praise, while also highlighting opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim’s century in the historic win in Darwin. Bangladesh secured their first-ever Test victory on Australian soil on Sunday (August 16).

In a post on X, Akram lauded Bangladesh’s performance against a full-strength Australia, saying the emphatic victory reflected the team’s growing confidence, preparation and commitment to Test cricket.

He was especially impressed by Hasan Mahmud’s disciplined bowling. Despite not relying heavily on variation, the pacer consistently hit the right line and length—qualities Akram considers crucial to succeeding in Test cricket.

Hasan was instrumental in Bangladesh’s commanding victory. Australia were bowled out for just 198 after opting to bat first, with Hasan claiming six wickets. Bangladesh then piled up 426, taking a first-innings lead of 228 runs.

Tanzid anchored Bangladesh’s response with a composed 101 off 197 balls, including eight fours and a six.

Australia showed greater resistance in the second innings, with Cameron Green scoring a century, but were eventually dismissed for 284. Mehidy Hasan Miraz took five wickets while Hasan added three more to finish with nine wickets in the match.

That left Bangladesh needing only 57 runs for victory. They completed the chase in 14.2 overs, losing just one wicket, with Mominul Haque unbeaten on 30 and Shadman Islam contributing 25.

The result marked a breakthrough moment for Bangladesh in Test cricket and further underlined the growing impact of their pace attack.