Bangladesh stunned Australia by nine wickets in Darwin and can seal a historic series win in Mackay
Australia have replaced Jake Weatherald with Matt Renshaw, while Cameron Green and Josh Hazlewood remain key after strong first-Test performances
A Bangladesh win would move them to No. 3 in the World Test Championship standings and complete a landmark series victory
Bangladesh head to Mackay with history within reach after stunning Australia by nine wickets in the opening Test in Darwin. The result was remarkable not just because of the margin, but because Bangladesh dictated terms for almost the entire match and became the first team to put Australia under such sustained pressure in the series.
With the second Test beginning on Saturday, the visitors can now complete a famous series victory, while Australia face the unfamiliar task of fighting to save a home series.
Australia have responded to their shock defeat by making a change at the top of the order. Matt Renshaw replaces Jake Weatherald, who struggled in both innings of the first Test, and will open alongside Travis Head.
Cameron Green's second-innings century offered Australia a much-needed positive, while Josh Hazlewood remained a threat with a six-wicket haul. However, Pat Cummins' side will need their batting order to collectively improve after Bangladesh's disciplined attack repeatedly exposed them in Darwin.
For Bangladesh, the first Test was a complete team effort rather than a one-man show. Hasan Mahmud claimed nine wickets and earned Player of the Match honours, while Tanzid Hasan scored his maiden Test century.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz made important contributions with both bat and ball, and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto's tactical calls consistently worked. Mushfiqur Rahim, playing his first Test in Australia at 39, also provided valuable experience and will be keen to help Bangladesh finish the job.
Bangladesh do have a few fitness concerns before the second Test. Tanzid has been managing a stiff neck, while Mushfiqur took a blow to his finger during training on Thursday. Neither appears to be in serious danger of missing the match, while Shoriful Islam has been cleared to play.
The visitors also have a major incentive beyond the series itself: victory in Mackay would lift them to third in the World Test Championship standings and further strengthen their position in the ongoing cycle.
The match will also mark a new chapter for Mackay, with Great Barrier Reef Arena becoming Australia's 12th men's Test venue.
The hosts have never lost both Tests in a two-match series at home, but Bangladesh have already shown that Australia's formidable home record means little if they can reproduce their Darwin performance.
Australia will expect a response from their experienced core; Bangladesh, meanwhile, have the opportunity to transform one historic victory into an even bigger statement.
Australia Vs Bangladesh, 2nd Test 2026: Live Streaming
When to watch Australia vs Bangladesh 2nd Test?
The second Test between Australia and Bangladesh will start on August 22 at 5:30 am IST.
Where to watch Australia vs Bangladesh 2nd Test?
The Australia vs Bangladesh 2nd Test will be telecast live on the Star Sports Network, with live streaming available on the JioHotstar app and website.
