Australia completed a dominant Test victory over Bangladesh inside two days, with Mitchell Starc once again proving the difference. The win sealed a 2-0 series sweep and underlined the gap in resources between the two sides.
Starc's lethal spell dismantles Bangladesh
Mitchell Starc was the chief destroyer, ripping through the Bangladesh batting lineup for the second time in the match. His pace and swing proved too much for a side that, despite its fighting spirit, lacked the personnel to match Australia's firepower.
Bangladesh, who had stunned Australia in the first Test, were expected to put up more of a fight. However, after Shoriful's earlier heroics had rocked Australia in the second Test, the final day turned into a procession as Australia sealed victory with a day to spare.
Shanto's side earns respect despite defeat
Despite the heavy defeat, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto's side earned widespread admiration for their enterprising approach throughout the series. Their willingness to take the fight to Australia, even when outmatched in resources, was a tonic for Test cricket.
The first Test victory was a historic achievement, and the manner in which Shoriful unsettled Australia in the second showed that this Bangladesh team is no pushover. They will be remembered with great fondness, as the series provided plenty of entertainment.
Call for regular touring schedule
Shanto has called on Cricket Australia to bring Bangladesh back for regular tours, rather than treating them as an occasional curiosity. The onus is now on CA to respond positively and ensure these contests become a more regular feature of the international calendar.
As the series concluded, the focus turned to the future, with both teams looking ahead to their next assignments. Australia will take confidence from this dominant display, while Bangladesh will hope to build on the promise shown in patches.
