Bangladesh delivered a commanding performance to defeat Australia by 86 runs via the Duckworth-Lewis Stern [DLS] method in the first ODI in Mirpur, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The hosts were powered by an explosive all-round display from Mosaddek Hossain and pace sensation Nahid Rana, whose fiery bowling unsettled the Australian batting lineup.
After being asked to bat first, Bangladesh posted a competitive 284/8 from their 50 overs. Najmul Hossain Shanto laid the foundation with 67, while Tanzid Hasan Tamim contributed a rapid 54. However, it was Mosaddek who stole the show late in the innings, smashing up an unbeaten 86 to get the hosts to a challenging total.
The Australian chase never truly gathered momentum. Early wickets left the visitors struggling, and Nahid Rana made sure that they remained under pressure throughout the innings . Bowling at speeds touching 150 km/h, the fast bowler claimed four wickets and troubled the Australian batters at regular intervals with his pace and aggression. Stand in captain Josh Inglis managed only 19 before becoming one of the Rana‘s victims.
The contest also featured a heated moment when Rana exchanged words with Inglis during the chase . The confrontation briefly raised tensions before Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto stepped in to calm the situation.
Despite Cameron Green fighting a half-century. Australia slipped to 191/9 before rain and lightning halted the play. With the conditions preventing a restart, Bangladesh were declared winners by 86 runs under the DLS method.
The victory marks one of the most impressive ODI performances of Bangladesh against Australia and showcases the emergence of Nahid Rana as a genuine pace threat on the international stage. For Australia, a depleted squad will need a quick response in the second ODI if they hope to level up the series and avoid another disappointing result on the subcontinental soil.
Sources: ESPN India | Indian Express
