Shoriful Islam achieves historic seven-wicket haul for Bangladesh in match against Australia.

In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Bangladesh's fast bowler Shoriful Islam made history during the second day of the second Test against Australia in Mackay. He became the first Bangladeshi bowler to achieve a seven-wicket haul against Australia, finishing with impressive figures of 7 for 48. This performance not only marked a personal milestone for Shoriful but also set a new record for the best bowling figures by a Bangladeshi pacer in Test cricket.

Shoriful's extraordinary spell came as Bangladesh faced a challenging situation after being bowled out for a mere 64 runs in their first innings. His efforts overshadowed Mitchell Starc's six-wicket haul, which had initially put Bangladesh on the back foot. Shoriful's achievement also surpassed the previous record for the best bowling figures by a Bangladeshi bowler in an away Test, previously held by Taijul Islam, who took 7 for 138 against Zimbabwe earlier this year.

Australia began their innings at a precarious 41 for 3 but managed to stabilize with a 77-run partnership between Steve Smith and Cameron Green. Smith contributed 42 runs off 74 balls, while Green played a more aggressive role, scoring 67 runs from 105 deliveries, including ten boundaries. However, Shoriful's relentless pace and movement kept Bangladesh in contention, as he reduced Australia to 148 for 8 before the lower order mounted a brief resistance.

Shoriful's crowning moment came when he bowled Green with a perfectly executed yorker, completing his seven-wicket haul. Nathan Lyon, who remained not out on 32, and Josh Hazlewood added crucial runs, helping Australia reach a total of 210. This gave the hosts a substantial first-innings lead of 146 runs, putting Bangladesh in a difficult position.

Earlier in the match, Australia won the toss and chose to field, a decision that paid off handsomely as Starc dismantled the Bangladeshi batting lineup with figures of 6 for 12. Pat Cummins also contributed with three wickets, leaving Bangladesh reeling at 64 all out, with Shoriful being the top scorer with just 14 runs. As Bangladesh began their second innings, they found themselves under immense pressure, finishing the first session at 39 for 3, with captain Najmul Hossain Shanto unbeaten on 23.

Despite Shoriful's historic performance, Bangladesh faces a daunting challenge to avoid conceding the series-levelling Test, as Australia remains firmly in control of the match.