Shoriful’s six-wicket haul keeps Bangladesh alive

Shoriful Islam bowled through discomfort to produce Bangladesh’s standout performance on the opening day of the second Test against Australia, claiming 6 for 35 and matching Mitchell Starc’s six-wicket haul.

The left-arm pacer had been struck by Pat Cummins while batting, with pain beginning around his elbow and spreading towards his neck and upper body. A member of Bangladesh’s team management said there was “no major issue”, although Shoriful felt uncomfortable when he came on to bowl.

Despite the problem, Shoriful dismantled Australia’s top order. He set up Travis Head before a scrambled-seam delivery came back sharply to take the inside edge, then beat Steven Smith’s defence with a full-length ball that moved in from the fourth-stump line.

Faith in Shoriful rewarded

Bangladesh’s management had considered changes to the XI after the team’s success in the first Test in Darwin, but retained Shoriful ahead of Ebadot Hossain. The decision was influenced by the conditions, including the wind and Shoriful’s ability to swing the ball.

“In Australian conditions, fast bowlers always do very well,” Shoriful said. He explained that he had studied the lengths used by Australia’s pace attack and discussed bowling plans with Bangladesh’s batters, who helped identify areas that were difficult to play.

Shoriful also acknowledged the influence of Starc, who had taken 6 for 12 while Bangladesh were bowled out for just 64. “He got six and I also got six and so I am even more happy,” he said, recalling how he had admired Starc’s bowling and swing since his age-group cricket days.

Bangladesh refuse to concede

Australia finished the day on 165 for 8, only 11 runs ahead, with Cameron Green unbeaten on 51 and Nathan Lyon at the crease. Shoriful said Bangladesh still had a chance if the batting improved in the second innings.

“The one message in the dressing room was that the game is still not over,” he said. “Only the first day has gone.”