Bangladesh Set Australia 275 Target

Australia have opened their campaign on a high note, defeating Turkey 2–0 in their Group D fixture in Vancouver at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Goals from Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe secured a confident start for the Australians, who had been widely considered strong contenders following their last-16 appearance in the previous edition.

However, attention swiftly shifted from football to cricket as the Australian men’s cricket side arrived in Bangladesh for a decisive third One Day International against Bangladesh at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur. The visitors entered the match under pressure, having already lost the first two matches of the series and facing the prospect of a rare whitewash.

Batting first after winning the toss, Bangladesh posted a competitive total of 274 for 5 from their allotted 50 overs, setting Australia a target of 275 for victory. The innings was built on several key partnerships, with Towhid Hridoy producing the standout performance with a fluent 83 off 88 deliveries.

Bangladesh Innings Summary

Bangladesh’s innings began shakily, losing Soumya Sarkar early for just 2 runs. However, Tanzid Hasan and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto steadied the innings with a 51-run second-wicket partnership off 56 balls. The introduction of part-time spinner Matt Renshaw proved decisive, as he removed both set batters in quick succession.

A 95-run partnership between Litton Das and Hridoy rebuilt momentum, although Litton was later forced to retire hurt after suffering a muscle strain while batting fluently. Hridoy, in particular, looked poised for a second ODI century but fell short after attempting an aggressive stroke against Ben Dwarshuis, with Alex Carey taking a safe catch at deep mid-wicket.

Mosaddek Hossain then provided valuable support, combining with Hridoy for an 81-ball 90-run stand that lifted Bangladesh to a strong finishing position. Despite losing wickets in the final overs, including Mehidy Hasan for a slow cameo, Bangladesh closed their innings at a commanding 274 for 5.

For Australia, Xavier Bartlett and Matt Renshaw claimed two wickets each, while Dwarshuis picked up one.

With 275 required for victory, the match now hangs in the balance, as Australia face the challenge of avoiding a series whitewash in Mirpur following Bangladesh’s dominant performances in the opening two ODIs.