Miraz century rescues Tigers in Australia practice match

Mehidy Hasan Miraz struck a fighting century to rescue Bangladesh on the opening day of their three-day practice match against a Cricket Australia XI in Darwin on Thursday.

After electing to bat, Bangladesh found themselves in deep trouble as the top order failed to capitalise on the opportunity to spend time in the middle. The visitors slumped to 110 for six before vice-captain Miraz led a spirited recovery with an unbeaten 109 off 141 deliveries.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

Miraz shared valuable lower-order partnerships to steer Bangladesh to 263 all out in 75.5 overs.

Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto scored 37 while opener Shadman Islam returned for 31.

Off-spinner Corey Rocchiccioli was the pick of the bowlers for the hosts with six wickets for 83 runs.

The century will be a timely confidence boost for Miraz ahead of Bangladesh's two-Test series against Australia, which begins later this month.

Bangladesh are using the three-day fixture as their only warm-up match before the opening Test, with the batting unit looking to adapt to Australian conditions after an otherwise disappointing day for the top order.