Bangladesh beat Australia by 23 runs in the first T20I recording their first T20I victory against Australia.
This was Bangladesh’s first win over Australia in T20I’s in attempts. The hosts defended a total of 131 with the help of their spinners who picked six wickets in 12 overs for just 65 runs.
Bangladesh play sensible cricket.
Australia held a tight grip in the game from the beginning with the hosts reduced to 37 for 2 early on. However senior pros Shakib Ul Hassan and Mahmudullah held the inning together for Bangladesh. Despite the pressure exerted by Australian spinners Zampa and Agar they kept the scoreboard ticking.
Afif Hossain walked in at number 6, with the run rate still under 6 and played a cameo of 23 runs from 17 balls allowing Bangladesh to finish the inning with a respectable 131 runs.
Australia crumble to spin.
Australia’s struggle against quality spin bowling was staggering. The visitors were 11 for 3 after just 13 balls. Mahedi, Shakib and Nasum had given Bangladesh a dream start.
Matthew Wade and Marsh tried to steady the ship and brought Australia back into the game. But when Wade perished off Nasum’s delivery, they were 49 for 4 in 10 overs.
Marsh stayed on and with the team 86 for 6, the task looked more and more difficult. Mitchell Starc’s 14 runs helpled Australia reach the three figure mark. In the end Bangladesh’s spin wizadry proved to be too much as they made history beating Australia for the first time ever in a T20I.
(Featured image : AFP)