Bangladesh’s batting collapsed spectacularly in the second Test against Australia, with Mitchell Starc leading the destruction at Mackay. The veteran pacer finished with outstanding figures of 6/12 as Bangladesh were bowled out for 64.
Starc began with a bang, dismissing Shadman Islam with the first ball of the innings. The wicket gave him a ninth Test match where he has struck in the opening over, moving ahead of James Anderson.
There was no let-up from Starc, who claimed five wickets in his first seven overs. Bangladesh were soon reduced to 12/5, and Pat Cummins piled on the pressure by taking three wickets to leave them at 39/9.
Taijul Islam and Shoriful Islam delayed the inevitable with a 25-run final-wicket partnership, but Bangladesh could only manage 64. It was their lowest Test score against Australia and their lowest total in a Test played in Australia.
Starc also reached a significant career milestone during the spell. His six wickets took him to 441 Test wickets, moving him beyond Dale Steyn’s 439. He is now 10th among Test cricket’s highest wicket-takers.
Australia also lost three early wickets in their reply but reached 50/3 by tea. The hosts will look to build a substantial lead after Starc’s stunning opening spell put them firmly in command.
