After just two days in the first Test, the scenario of a win is already grim for the visitors. With the third innings of the Test already underway by stumps on Day 2, a result is a guaranteed aspect. For Australia though, a test of character awaits the side as Bangladesh ended up getting a valuable first innings lead of 43. As seen on fickle pitches, even a lead of such a margin can prove to be extremely vital in the eventual outcome of the game.
However, Australia are indebted to the lower order resistance put on a show by Pat Cummins and Ashton Agar. At one point, it seemed clear that Bangladesh would end up with a lead of close to 100 as Shakib Al Hasan wrecked havoc on the Aussies. Nevertheless, a stern and fighting partnership between Agar and Cummins for the ninth wicket ensured that the lead was restricted to just 43.
Post the end of the second day, spinner Nathan Lyon admitted that he was quite positive for the rest of the game.
“I wasn’t panicking,” Lyon said. “I just missed a straight one. That’s the game of cricket. “I wouldn’t say panic is the word. Run outs aren’t ideal in any form of cricket but especially Test matches.”
“I didn’t really see the run out so I don’t know how bad it was,” he added. “It’s a game. We all make errors, I misjudged one and one hit me on the pad and went straight and got out lbw. It’s just part of the game. “The game is in the balance and we have an opportunity to come out in the morning and bat well, bat deep and bat well in partnerships.”
Lyon fully lauded the brave stand between Agar and Cummins, which could prove to be Australia’s saving grace in this game.
“I think the two guys batted very bravely,” he added. “They took the game on, which you have to do in these type of conditions. “I’m going to sit here and give them credit. “They’re two good players, they played some incredible shots out there and took the game on. “Hats off to them. It’s now our opportunity to take the game on in our first innings and see where we get to.”