ISLAMABAD (PEN) : In their Super Eight debut match at the T20 World Cup, Australia showcased a strong performance, securing a rain-affected victory by 28 runs over Bangladesh. Pat Cummins, returning to the side alongside Josh Hazlewood, made a significant impact by claiming a hat-trick, his first in international cricket and the tournament’s first.
Cummins’ hat-trick featured the dismissals of Mahmudullah, caught by Adam Zampa, Mahedi Hasan, and Towhid Hridoy, who was caught by Hazlewood after scoring 40 runs. He concluded with figures of 3-29 from his four overs. Adam Zampa supported Cummins with 2-24, stifling Bangladesh’s batting momentum during the middle overs.
Despite rain interrupting Australia’s chase, they were comfortably positioned at 100 for two in 11.2 overs when play was halted. David Warner contributed significantly with an unbeaten 53, while Glenn Maxwell remained not out on 14 at the match’s premature end under the Duckworth-Lewis method.
Australia’s captain Mitchell Marsh, returning from a hamstring injury, opted not to bowl and focused on his batting, which unfortunately saw him dismissed for just one run. Rishad Hossain claimed both Australian wickets, dismissing Travis Head for 31 as well.
Overall, Australia’s solid start in the Super Eight stage highlighted their prowess in both batting and bowling, setting a promising tone for the remainder of the tournament.
