Australia’s 50-over struggles accelerated on Tuesday as Bangladesh handed them an 86-run defeat via the DLS method in the opening ODI at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. The visitors arrived in Mirpur trying to recover from a series loss to Pakistan just last week, but found themselves entirely outclassed by a returning veteran and a 23-year-old fast bowler.
Bangladesh fought through early trouble to post 284/8 in their 50 overs. The recovery relied on half-centuries from Najmul Hossain Shanto, who hit 67, and Tanzid Hasan with 54. But the innings belonged to Mosaddek Hossain. Returning to international cricket for the first time in four years, Mosaddek anchored the back half of the order with an unbeaten 86 runs off 70 deliveries.
Australia’s fielders actively aided that comeback. The touring side dropped six catches throughout the afternoon. Four of those reprieves went directly to Mosaddek, slipping through the hands of Cooper Connolly, Oliver Peake, and Adam Zampa to keep the dangerous middle-order batsman at the crease.
The run chase collapsed against sheer pace. Nahid Rana tore through the Australian lineup, consistently pushing the radar gun above 146 kph. The 23-year-old speedster finished with match-winning figures of 4-41 across his full 10 overs. Australia crumbled to 191/9 in 42.2 overs, leaving Cameron Green stranded on an unbeaten 52 when heavy rain and lightning forced officials to abandon the rest of the contest.
The result ends a 21-year drought for the host nation. This marks only the second time Bangladesh has ever defeated the six-time world champions in the ODI format, securing their first victory since 2005 when they famously upset Australia in Cardiff.