Australia have completed a statement victory, beating Bangladesh by an innings and 51 runs in the second Test inside two days to level the two-match series 1-1. After enduring a historic nine-wicket defeat in Darwin last week, Australia made a stunning comeback, returning with far greater intensity and ruthlessly to decimate Bangladesh.
After Australia captain Pat Cummins decided to bowl, Australian pacer Mitchell Starc ripped through Bangladesh’s top order, taking 6-12, as Bangladesh were dismissed for 64 on day one itself. It was a dramatic collapse for Bangladesh, who had shown great discipline with the bat during their breakthrough victory in Darwin. Australia remained on top with the bat as well, reaching 210 before Bangladesh ended the innings during the opening session of the second day.
But Bangladesh again needed a determined batting effort to stay in the match; however, Australia's attack gave them little opportunity to rebuild. Mitchell Starc was particularly devastating, following his outstanding six-wicket haul in the first innings with another four wickets in the second to dismiss Bangladesh for 95. Starc finished the match with 10 wickets, which he claimed for a fourth time in his career.