The Story

Bangladesh was on top of their game from day one despite some hiccups. Two superb innings from opener Tamim Iqbal and star all—rounder Shakib Al Hasan pushed Bangladesh to a score 260 in the 1st innings. Later, Shakib came back and bagged 5 wickets to skittle out the Aussies for just 217and managing a lead by 43 runs.

Coming to bat with a responsibility of setting up a target, Tamim Iqbal was once again to the fore and played a brilliant knock of 78 to help Bangladesh manage 221 in the midst of a unplayable spell from Nathan Lyon who bagged 6 wickets.

Australia began the chase with a great deal of optimism as David Warner and Steve Smith resurrected the innings. However, Shakib Al Hasan once again intervened with the ball on the 5th-day pitch where the ball was spinning square. He bagged another 5 wicket haul to complete a 10 wicket match haul also helping his team bowl out for 244 giving Bangladesh a 20 runs victory.

It was Bangladesh’s first Test against Australia in 11 years.

Aussies typical with their sledging and body language

The historic match witnessed its share of intimidating body language and sledging apart from a wonderful show of competitive cricket.

Bangladesh ensured that they matched their opposition in that department as well. Shakib gave Nathan Lyon a send-off on the first day whereas David Warner, Steven Smith, and Matthew Wade had some verbal exchanged on the third and fourth day.

“Australians are very good at it, we are learning from them,” Shakib said when asked about the verbal volleys. “After this Test match, they will show a lot more respect.”

Shakib now feels that the stronger opposition will respect them better in the next Test.

“At home, we believe we can beat any side,” he said. “We had that confidence and the belief came from the last two-three years. Not many have been watching us but we were quietly doing our job.”