Bangladesh recovered strongly in the second half of their innings to post 274 for 5 against Australia in the third ODI at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.
The hosts were 114 for 3 after 25 overs with Litton Das and Tawhid Hridoy trying to rebuild after an uneven start.
Litton looked set for a half century but had to leave the field after suffering cramps. He retired hurt on 48 and left Hridoy to guide the innings.
The right hander played a key role in Bangladesh’s recovery. He mixed caution with attack and brought up his second ODI fifty against Australia. It was also the 13th half century of his ODI career.
Mosaddek Hossain then provided the late momentum. Playing his first ODI series in four years, he attacked the Australian bowlers and kept the run rate moving. His positive approach gave Bangladesh a strong finish.
Hridoy looked on course for a century before falling for 83 from 88 balls. He struck eight fours before mistiming a lofted shot off Ben Dwarshuis and getting caught at deep midwicket.
Mosaddek continued his charge and completed another quick fifty. He remained unbeaten on 56 from 51 balls with five fours and one six.
After Mahedi Hasan lost his wicket, Litton returned to the crease and finally reached his half century. The unbeaten 58 from 78 balls carried extra significance as it was his first ODI fifty at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium despite playing international cricket for 11 years.
Bangladesh finished on 274 for 5 from their 50 overs. Australia now need 275 runs to avoid a series whitewash.
