Mosaddek Hossain Saikat produced a career-best unbeaten 86 as Bangladesh recovered from an early setback and a middle-order wobble to post 284 for 8 against Australia in the opening match of the three-match ODI series at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur on Tuesday.
The returning all-rounder, playing his first ODI in nearly four years, anchored the latter stages of the innings with an aggressive 70-ball knock featuring seven fours and three sixes. He was supported by Najmul Hossain Shanto, who made 67, and Tanzid Hasan Tamim, who struck 54 as Bangladesh set Australia a target of 285.
Tanzid and Shanto repaired the early damage with a 96-run stand for the second wicket. Tanzid’s 44-ball innings included seven boundaries and a six, while Shanto hit nine fours during his measured 86-ball knock.
Mosaddek and Towhid Hridoy then combined for a crucial 75-run partnership for the fifth wicket after Bangladesh slipped during the middle overs. Hridoy contributed 31 from 51 deliveries before departing, while Mosaddek accelerated in the closing stages.
The all-rounder reached his half-century from 49 balls before taking control of the innings. His unbeaten 86, the highest ODI score of his career, ensured Bangladesh finished strongly despite regular wickets at the other end.
Taskin Ahmed added valuable late runs with a brisk 20 off 16 balls, including two fours and a six, helping Bangladesh approach the 300-run mark. For Australia, Nathan Ellis was the most successful bowler with three wickets.
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