Mitchell Starc's exceptional bowling performance of 6 for 12 helped reduce Bangladesh to their fourth-lowest Test total of 64, though Shoriful Islam's return to form with 6 for 35 limited Australia's advantage to 101 runs after the opening day of the Mackay Test.
The opening day of the Mackay Test between Australia and Bangladesh produced one of cricket's most dramatic swings, with 18 wickets falling in what proved to be a challenging surface for batting. After Australian captain Pat Cummins opted to bowl first, Mitchell Starc delivered a destructive spell that dismantled Bangladesh's batting lineup. His figures of 6 for 12 came from just 22 balls as Bangladesh collapsed to 12 for 5, with four of their top-six batters falling for ducks. Bangladesh eventually mustered only 64 runs, their fourth-lowest total in Test history.
Australia's response initially appeared stronger, with Steven Smith and Cameron Green combining for a 77-run partnership to steady the innings after early losses. However, Shoriful Islam, returning from a hamstring injury, triggered a remarkable turnaround. The left-arm quick claimed six wickets for 35 runs, dismissing Smith with an excellent delivery that caught him shuffled in front of the stumps. Shoriful's performance included a double-wicket over in which he removed Beau Webster and Pat Cummins for ducks, the latter gloved to the wicketkeeper.
By stumps, Australia had reached 165 for 8, a lead of 101 runs, with Cameron Green remaining unbeaten on 51. While Australia's position appears stronger, their own batting vulnerabilities were exposed during Shoriful's spell, suggesting the Mackay wicket will continue to punish indecision and poor technique. Starc's haul moved him past Dale Steyn's 439 career Test wickets, underlining his significance in Australia's success on the day.
