Bangladesh has taken firm control of the first Test match against Australia in Darwin on the third day of play. Responding to Australia's modest first-innings total of 198, Bangladesh put together a total of 426 runs to build a commanding lead of 228 runs. Earlier in the match, 26-year-old pacer Hasan Mahmud delivered an outstanding performance by taking 6 wickets to restrict Australia under 200, despite a half-century from Steve Smith. Bangladesh's batters capitalized on this advantage on Day 3 to put the host team under immense pressure.
Bangladesh Builds a Dominant First-Innings Lead
Australia struggled in their opening innings as Hasan Mahmud dismantled their batting lineup with a 6-wicket haul. Although Steve Smith scored a half-century, Australia was bowled out for just 198 runs. Bangladesh responded with disciplined and resolute batting, grinding through the Australian bowling attack to accumulate 426 runs. This remarkable batting display earned Bangladesh a substantial 228-run lead, putting them in a prime position to dictate the outcome of the match.
Two Dropped Catches in One Pat Cummins Over
Australia's difficulties were exacerbated by sloppy fielding performance during Bangladesh's innings, causing visible frustration for captain Pat Cummins. In the 129th over, with Bangladesh positioned at 390 runs, Cummins was bowling when two critical chances were squandered. On the second ball of the over, Steve Smith dropped a straightforward catch off Taskin Ahmed at backward square leg. Just three balls later, on the fifth delivery, Travis Head dropped Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Had both opportunities been taken, Bangladesh would have been bowled out for 390, but the missed chances allowed the visitors to extend their total to 426.
