Australia Defeats Bangladesh by 28 Runs in T20 World Cup Opener
In a thrilling encounter at the T20 World Cup 2024 Super 8 opener, Australia emerged victorious against Bangladesh by 28 runs, utilizing the DLS method due to rain interruptions. The match, held in Antigua, witnessed a series of key moments that defined Australia's dominance throughout the game.
First Innings: Australia's Bowlers Dominate
Australia, led by captain Mitchell Marsh's decision to bowl first, started strong with Mitchell Starc swiftly removing Tanzid Hasan for a duck in the opening over. Despite a brief partnership between Litton Das and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, Australia's spinners, particularly Adam Zampa, shifted the momentum back in their favor. Zampa's crucial wickets included that of Litton Das (16), and Glenn Maxwell added to Bangladesh's woes by dismissing Rishad Hossain (2). The turning point came with Pat Cummins' remarkable hattrick in the final over, removing Towhid Hridoy (40), Mahmudullah (2), and Mahedi Hasan (0), restricting Bangladesh to 140/8 in their allotted 20 overs.
Second Innings: Rain Intervenes as Warner Leads Australia
Chasing a target of 141, Australia started strong with openers David Warner and Aaron Finch setting a solid foundation. However, Rain played spoilsport twice during their innings. The first interruption came after the seventh over, with Australia comfortably placed at 64/0, with Warner unbeaten on 53*. Play resumed briefly before another rain delay halted the game in the 12th over with Australia at 93/2.
DLS Method Decides the Outcome
With persistent rain preventing further play, the match used the DLS method, confirming Australia's victory by 28 runs. Despite the interruptions, Warner's innings provided crucial momentum, while Bangladesh struggled to regain ground after losing early wickets.
Player performances and key highlights
David Warner's unbeaten 53* provided stability and acceleration to Australia's innings before rain intervened. Mitchell Starc and Adam Zampa showcased their bowling prowess with crucial early breakthroughs, while Pat Cummins' hattrick in the final significantly restricted Bangladesh's total.
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