Bangladesh close in on historic Test victory in Darwin as Smith falls

Bangladesh have moved significantly closer to securing their first-ever Test victory in Australia after dismissing Steve Smith on day three of the first Test in Darwin. The visitors, who were unfancied following a heavy warm-up defeat, now trail by 67 runs with six wickets in hand, putting the hosts under immense pressure to avoid a historic defeat.

Spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz played a pivotal role in the day’s proceedings, taking the crucial wicket of Smith, who departed for 44 after chipping a leading edge back to the off-spinner. The dismissal left Australia 122-4 in their second innings and shifted the momentum firmly in Bangladesh’s favour. Smith’s departure was followed by a resilient partnership from Cameron Green and Alex Carey, who batted out the session to close on 161-4.

Green, whose place in the Australian side had been questioned prior to the series, defended his position with a gritty unbeaten 43. He was joined at the crease by wicketkeeper Alex Carey, who remained on 19. The pair offered the hosts a slim chance to avoid an innings defeat, but the task remains formidable given Bangladesh’s dominant bowling display.

Earlier in the match, Bangladesh seamer Hasan Mahmud dismantled the Australian top order with a career-best 6-55 in the first innings. Mahmud claimed both openers, Jake Weatherald and Travis Head, for cheap scores, bowling them onto their stumps. His performance was instrumental in restricting Australia to 198 in their first innings, setting up a challenging target for the hosts.

Bangladesh’s first innings total of 426 was anchored by Miraz’s 65 from 154 balls, which helped the lower order add 75 runs to their overnight score. Josh Hazlewood took 6-89 for Australia, claiming his 300th Test wicket in the process, but it was not enough to prevent the visitors from establishing control. Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto praised his team’s character and process-oriented approach throughout the match.

Australia have never lost a home Test to Bangladesh, having won all previous encounters except for one loss in Mirpur in 2017. However, the current situation in Darwin suggests a potential shift in that dynamic. The outcome of day four remains uncertain, with Australia still having six wickets remaining and a lead of only 67 runs to defend.