Australia secured the three match T20I series against Bangladesh with a hard fought seven run win in the second encounter at Chattogram. The victory gave the visitors an unassailable lead and marked their first bilateral T20I series triumph on Bangladeshi soil after suffering a 4-1 defeat during their previous tour in 2021.
The foundation of Australia’s success was laid by Matt Renshaw, who produced an outstanding unbeaten knock of 89. Coming to the crease after an early wobble, Renshaw steadied the innings before accelerating brilliantly alongside Tim David. The pair combined for a crucial 97 run partnership for the fourth wicket from only 50 deliveries, helping Australia recover after losing three wickets inside the powerplay.
Bangladesh had made an encouraging start with the ball. Nasum Ahmed was particularly effective, finishing with figures of 2 for 27. Early breakthroughs from Nahid Rana and Mustafizur Rahman also kept the hosts firmly in the contest as Australia slipped to 44 for 3.
After settling in, David shifted the momentum with a series of powerful strokes. His 45 from 26 balls put pressure back on the Bangladesh attack, while Renshaw took charge during the middle overs. The left hander reached his half century in just 29 deliveries and punished the spinners with three successive sixes in one over. Although David eventually departed, Renshaw remained unbeaten and guided Australia to a competitive total, with Joel Davies providing useful late support.
Bangladesh responded positively in pursuit of the target. Tanzid Hasan provided early momentum with an aggressive display, while Saif Hassan and Parvez Hossain Emon kept the required rate under control through a valuable partnership. At one stage, the chase appeared well within reach as Bangladesh reached 130 for 2.
However, Australia gradually regained control through disciplined bowling and sharp fielding. Adam Zampa broke key partnerships, while Aaron Hardie delivered important breakthroughs at crucial moments. Emon scored 36 from 22 balls before departing, and Saif soon followed after contributing a valuable innings.
The decisive phase belonged to Nathan Ellis, whose composure under pressure restricted Bangladesh’s scoring opportunities in the closing overs. Supported by Zampa and Hardie, Ellis helped build pressure through dot balls and accurate execution, preventing the home side from finding the boundaries they desperately needed.
Despite a spirited effort from Bangladesh, Australia held firm to secure a memorable seven run victory and wrap up the series with one match still to play.
