Shoriful Islam broke a growing partnership between Steve Smith and Cameron Green as Australia lost their fourth wicket in the second Test against Bangladesh at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay.
Smith and Green had steadied Australia after the early loss of three wickets, putting together a 69-run partnership. But Shoriful returned for a new spell and struck in his first over, trapping Smith lbw for 42 from 74 balls.
Smith reviewed the decision, but the replay showed both the impact and wicket were umpire’s call, leaving the on-field decision unchanged.
It was Shoriful’s third wicket of the innings, following his dismissals of Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne.
After 26 overs, Australia were 118 for four, giving them a 54-run lead over Bangladesh. Green was unbeaten on 21 from 40 balls, with Alex Carey the new batter at the crease.
But Carey could not strengthen his tenure on the wicket. A smart bowling change from Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, brought another success for Bangladesh.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz took the wicket of Alex Carey, Hasan Mahmud grabbed the catch. Australia lost their fifth batter with Carey’s depart.
Australia had earlier been reduced to 41 for three before Smith and Green rebuilt the innings. Bangladesh were bowled out for 64 in their first innings, with Mitchell Starc taking six for 12.
