Bangladesh eye series glory as Australia fight for survival

Bangladesh will walk onto the field in Mackay on Saturday, August 22, with history within reach when the second and final Test against Australia gets underway at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.

The Tigers lead the two-match series 1-0 after their remarkable nine-wicket victory in Darwin. A draw will be enough to give Bangladesh their first Test series victory in Australia, while another win would complete a stunning 2-0 sweep. Australia, meanwhile, have no alternative but to win if they are to keep the series alive.

That contrasting equation has turned the second Test into a fascinating contest of pressure, belief and response.
For Bangladesh, the immediate challenge is to leave Darwin behind.

The Tigers produced one of the most complete performances in their Test history in the opening match. Tanzid Hasan's century provided the foundation with the bat, Hasan Mahmud repeatedly troubled Australia's batting and finished with nine wickets, while Mehedi Hasan Miraz once again proved his value with significant contributions in both departments.

But a historic victory can also create a different kind of danger.

Bangladesh cannot afford to enter Mackay believing that the hard part has already been done. Australia have had time to assess their mistakes, regroup and prepare for a very different contest.

The hosts have already changed their batting combination, bringing Matt Renshaw into the side after leaving out Jake Weatherald. The move reflects the pressure surrounding Australia's top order following its struggles in Darwin.

Australia's experienced players will now be expected to respond.

Bangladesh may also have another option available in the bowling department. Shoriful Islam has recovered from the hamstring problem that ruled him out of the opening Test and is back in contention.

His availability gives the team another left-arm pace option, although the management faces a difficult decision over whether to alter an attack that was so effective in Darwin.

The Mackay venue adds another layer to the occasion. The Great Barrier Reef Arena is hosting its first men's Test, meaning the match represents a landmark for the venue as well as a potentially historic moment for Bangladesh.

The conditions could also bring the fast bowlers into the game early, making the opening sessions particularly important.

Australia will be desperate to establish control before Bangladesh's bowlers can settle into a rhythm.

The Tigers, meanwhile, will want to carry the confidence of Darwin without carrying the complacency that can sometimes follow a major victory.

The equation could hardly be clearer.

Australia are fighting to save the series. Bangladesh are fighting to make history.

And when the first ball is delivered on Saturday, neither side will be able to hide behind what happened in Darwin.

The first Test gave Bangladesh belief. The second could give them a series they will remember forever.