Bangladesh seize dominance in Darwin as Tanzid Hasan etches history

Bangladesh have established a formidable position in the first Test against Australia, closing Day Two in Darwin on 351-6. The visitors lead by 153 runs with four wickets remaining, capitalising on a historic innings by opener Tanzid Hasan, who became the first Bangladeshi to score a Test century on Australian soil.

Hasan’s 101 runs off 188 balls, including eight fours and a six off Nathan Lyon, provided the foundation for the tourists’ dominance. Playing only his second Test match, the 25-year-old reached his milestone with a push through mid-off before departing shortly after, caught at deep mid-off by Mitchell Starc. His innings was marked by control and patience, though he had earlier survived a sharp chance at first slip when Steve Smith failed to hold the catch.

Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto provided crucial support with an unbeaten 84, accelerating the scoring rate after Tanzid’s dismissal. Shanto’s aggressive approach saw the run rate climb, but the introduction of the second new ball allowed the Australian attack to regain momentum. The tourists lost Najmul, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Litton Das in quick succession, all caught at second slip by Steve Smith.

Smith’s three catches in quick succession elevated him to equal Joe Root’s record for the most catches by a fielder in Test cricket. The wickets reduced Bangladesh’s lead, but a resilient 40-run partnership between Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who finished on 32, and Hasan Mahmud helped stabilise the innings before the close.

Australia, who were dismissed for 198 runs on Day One thanks to Hasan Mahmud’s career-best 6-55, faced a difficult task. Australian opener Jake Weatherald acknowledged the visitors' quality, noting that while his team missed chances, the wicket had transformed into a good batting track. Bangladesh now seek a maiden Test win in Australia at their third attempt, holding a significant advantage with the pitch offering little assistance to the bowlers.