Bangladesh Secures Historic First Test Victory in Australia with Darwin Win
Bangladesh registered a historic nine-wicket win against Australia in the first Test at Darwin, concluding on August 16, 2026. The landmark result marks Bangladesh’s first-ever Test triumph on Australian soil and only their second victory over Australia in Test cricket history.
What Happened
Australia struggled to establish control early in the match, getting bowled out for 198 in their opening innings after Bangladesh’s bowling attack displayed tight discipline on the first morning. Bangladesh responded with a commanding total of 426, establishing a decisive first-innings lead.
In their second innings, Australia managed 284, bolstered by an unbeaten century from Cameron Green. However, a lack of solid batting partnerships left Australia unable to set a challenging target. Needing only 57 runs to win, Bangladesh chased down the total with the loss of a single wicket. Hasan Mahmud earned the Player of the Match award after returning match figures of 6/55 in the first innings and 3/56 in the second.
Key Highlights
- Bangladesh defeated Australia by nine wickets in Darwin to claim their first Test win on Australian soil.
- The win represents Bangladesh’s second Test victory over Australia, following their first in Dhaka in 2017.
- Pacer Hasan Mahmud captured nine wickets across the match (6/55 and 3/56) to claim Player of the Match honours.
- Australia posted totals of 198 and 284, with Cameron Green scoring an unbeaten second-innings hundred.
- Bangladesh achieved the milestone in only their third Test attempt in Australia, becoming the second-quickest visiting side to win a Test there.
Why This Matters
This match marks a major milestone for Bangladesh cricket. Prior to this encounter, Bangladesh had played two Tests in Australia without a win. By securing victory in their third attempt, Bangladesh became the second-quickest visiting team in cricket history to win a Test match in Australia. The victory also ended a nearly decade-long gap between Test wins against Australia, following their initial triumph in Dhaka in 2017.
Speaking to ABC Sport, Australian batter Steve Smith acknowledged that his team was thoroughly outplayed across the four days. Smith described the defeat as a “blip” for the top-ranked side, praising Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling on the opening morning and noting that Australia’s batters failed to capitalise after getting starts.
What to Watch Next
The two-match series moves to Mackay for the second Test, scheduled to take place from August 22 to August 26. Australia will attempt to bounce back and level the series, while Bangladesh will look to carry their momentum forward following their historic win.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the Player of the Match award in the Darwin Test?
Hasan Mahmud was named Player of the Match after taking 6/55 in the first innings and 3/56 in the second innings for Bangladesh.
What was Australia’s score across both innings?
Australia was bowled out for 198 runs in their first innings and scored 284 runs in their second innings.
When and where is the second Test taking place?
The second Test between Australia and Bangladesh is scheduled to be played in Mackay from August 22 to August 26.
Source: CricTracker and ABC Sport