Bangladesh slipped to 316 for six after 87 overs against Australia as the second new ball triggered a sharp collapse in Darwin.
Mitchell Starc struck first, removing Litton Das for a duck. Litton edged behind to the slips, leaving Bangladesh five down after Australia had already dismissed captain Najmul Hossain Shanto.
Pat Cummins then removed Mushfiqur Rahim for 36, with Steven Smith taking the catch. Mushfiqur’s dismissal left Bangladesh six down and facing their first serious pressure of the innings.
Australia’s quick strikes have changed the rhythm of the innings. Bangladesh had built a substantial advantage earlier, but the new ball has given Starc, Hazlewood and Cummins an immediate threat.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Hasan Mahmud now have the task of extending Bangladesh’s lead. Bangladesh led Australia by 118 runs after Mushfiqur’s dismissal.
Australia bowled Bangladesh out for 198 in the first innings, so Bangladesh still have a chance to set a sizeable target if the lower order can add valuable runs.
