Australia vs Bangladesh 1st Test: Bangladesh Dominate Day One in Darwin
Australia and Bangladesh have started their two-match Test series in impressive fashion, with Bangladesh producing a stunning performance on the opening day of the first Test in Darwin. The match began on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Marrara Stadium, with Australia looking to make a strong start at home. However, Bangladesh’s bowling attack had other plans.
Australia Bowled Out for Just 198
After winning the toss, Australia decided to bat first, but their batting lineup struggled against an inspired Bangladesh bowling attack. Australia were eventually bowled out for just 198 runs in 53 overs.
This was Australia’s lowest-ever Test total against Bangladesh, making the performance a historic moment in the series. The Australian top order failed to build a strong partnership, allowing Bangladesh to maintain pressure throughout the innings.
Steve Smith was the main resistance for Australia. The experienced batter played a fighting innings of 71 runs and tried to stabilize the Australian innings when wickets were falling around him. However, Bangladesh continued to attack and eventually removed Smith as well.
Hasan Mahmud Leads Bangladesh’s Bowling Attack
The biggest star of Australia’s first innings was Bangladesh fast bowler Hasan Mahmud. He delivered an excellent spell and finished with six wickets for 55 runs.
His six-wicket haul played a major role in restricting Australia to 198. Hasan consistently challenged the Australian batters and showed excellent control with the new and older ball.
His performance is one of the major highlights of the first Test and could become one of the most memorable bowling performances by a Bangladesh fast bowler against Australia.
Bangladesh Make a Strong Start
Bangladesh’s response with the bat was much more confident. Their opening batters showed good discipline against Australia’s experienced pace attack, including Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood.
Shadman Islam scored 20 runs before being dismissed, but Tanzid Hasan and Mominul Haque then helped Bangladesh recover and build an important partnership.
At the end of Day One, Bangladesh had reached 96 for 1, leaving them only 102 runs behind Australia’s first-innings total. Tanzid Hasan remained unbeaten on 35, while Mominul Haque was unbeaten on 32.
The visitors therefore finished the opening day in a very strong position.
Steve Smith’s Fighting Knock
eStve Smith was Australia’s most successful batter on the first day. His 71-run innings provided Australia with much-needed stability during a difficult batting performance.
Smith has been one of Australia’s most reliable Test batters for many years, and his experience once again proved valuable. However, he could not prevent Bangladesh from taking control of the match.
Australia will now need their bowlers to produce something special when play resumes. Starc and Hazlewood will be particularly important as Bangladesh look to move ahead of Australia’s total.
Bangladesh Have the Advantage
Bangladesh clearly finished Day One with the momentum. Their bowlers dismissed Australia for only 198, while their batters then reached 96 for 1 before the close of play.
The tourists are now just 102 runs behind Australia with nine wickets remaining. If Bangladesh can build a significant first-innings lead, Australia could face serious pressure in the remaining days of the Test.
The first Test is also an important part of the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship, making every run and wicket valuable for both teams.
What to Expect on Day Two
Day Two could be extremely important. Bangladesh will want their remaining batters to continue building a strong first innings and establish a substantial lead.
Australia, meanwhile, will be hoping their fast bowlers can produce early wickets and bring the team back into the contest.
With Bangladesh already showing excellent bowling and batting discipline, the second day promises to be another exciting chapter in the Australia vs Bangladesh Test series.
Match Summary
Match: Australia vs Bangladesh, 1st Test
Series: Bangladesh Tour of Australia 2026
Venue: Marrara Stadium, Darwin
Date: August 13-17, 2026
Australia 1st Innings: 198 all out
Steve Smith: 71 runs
Hasan Mahmud: 6/55
Bangladesh: 96/1 at the end of Day One
Bangladesh trail by: 102 runs
Bangladesh have made an excellent start to the Test series and will now look to turn their impressive Day One performance into a strong first-innings advantage.
