Australia vs Bangladesh 2nd Test: Whitewash Looms for Aussies
August 22, 2026Key Stats and Takeaways
- Bangladesh crushed Australia by nine wickets in the first Test at Darwin.
- Hasan Mahmud grabbed nine wickets and became the standout bowler.
- Tanzid Hasan smashed his maiden Test century in that same match.
- Josh Hazlewood joined the elite 300 Test wickets club during the series.
- Mitchell Starc ripped through Bangladesh early, taking 5 wickets for just 11 runs on day one.
So here’s the thing. Cricket fans didn’t expect this storyline in 2026. Bangladesh walked into Australia and stunned everyone. They beat the hosts by nine wickets in Darwin. It was Bangladesh’s first-ever Test win on Australian soil. Consequently, pressure now sits squarely on Pat Cummins and his squad.
Australia vs Bangladesh 2nd Test: What’s Happening in Mackay
The Australia vs Bangladesh 2nd Test kicked off on August 22 at the Great Barrier Reef Arena. This venue makes history too. It’s hosting its very first Test match ever. Meanwhile, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Australia. They’ve never lost a two-match home series 2-0. Therefore, this match becomes a must-win situation.
Bangladesh, on the other hand, arrived full of confidence. Their captain, Najmul Hossain Shanto, led brilliantly in Darwin. Plus, his bowlers backed him up perfectly.
Australia vs Bangladesh 2nd Test Squad Changes
Australia made one crucial change for this clash. Matt Renshaw replaced struggling opener Jake Weatherald. Weatherald managed just 23 and 0 runs in Darwin. So, selectors turned to the experienced left-hander instead. Renshaw hasn’t played a Test in over three years. However, coach Andrew McDonald trusts his technique against moving balls.
Bangladesh kept faith in their winning combination. Tanzid Hasan, Mominul Haque, and Mushfiqur Rahim all return. Their bowling attack also stays largely unchanged.
Australia vs Bangladesh 2nd Test Day One Meltdown
Day one delivered instant fireworks. Australia won the toss and chose to bowl first. Mitchell Starc then tore through Bangladesh’s top order. He claimed five wickets while conceding only 11 runs. As a result, Bangladesh slumped to 6 wickets for 35 runs by lunch.
Nevertheless, this series has already proven unpredictable. Bangladesh looked equally dominant in Darwin before turning things around. Therefore, nobody should count them out just yet.
If Australia wins here, they level the series. If Bangladesh wins, they complete a stunning 2-0 series sweep. Either way, cricket history gets written in Mackay this week.
People Also Ask
Who won the first Test between Australia and Bangladesh in 2026?
Bangladesh won by nine wickets in Darwin, their first Test victory on Australian soil.
Where is the Australia vs Bangladesh 2nd Test being played?
The match takes place at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay, Queensland.
Who replaced Jake Weatherald for Australia’s second Test squad?
Matt Renshaw replaced Weatherald as Australia’s new opening batter.
How many wickets did Hasan Mahmud take in the first Test?
Hasan Mahmud claimed nine wickets and earned Player of the Match honors.
What happens if Bangladesh wins the second Test too?
Bangladesh would complete a historic 2-0 series sweep over Australia at home.
