Mitchell Marsh scored a brilliant 177 not out as Australia chased down Bangladesh’s impressive first-innings effort of 306 with ease to win the match by 8 wickets and progress to the semi-finals of the 2023 Cricket World Cup.
Australia’s victory was set up by a superb bowling performance from their bowlers, who restricted Bangladesh to 306 despite a valiant 74 from Towhid Hridoy.
In reply, Australia got off to a flying start thanks to a 75-run partnership between David Warner (53) and Travis Head (42). However, Warner’s dismissal triggered a mini-collapse, with Australia losing three wickets in quick succession.
But Marsh then arrived at the crease and played a devastating innings to rescue Australia. He hit 26 boundaries and nine sixes in his knock, which took him to his first ODI century.
Marsh was ably supported by Steve Smith (56), and the duo put on a 185-run partnership to guide Australia to victory.
Australia’s dominant performance
Australia overcame a target of 307 with ease, thanks to Marsh’s efforts, along with a half-century from David Warner and good support from Steve Smith.
Marsh hit 177* from 132 balls, hitting 26 boundaries during his knock. He was particularly severe on the Bangladesh spinners, who struggled to contain his power and aggression.
Warner also played a crucial role in Australia’s victory, scoring 53 from 61 balls. He provided a solid start to the chase and gave Marsh the support he needed.
Smith also made a valuable contribution, scoring 48 from 56 balls. He helped to consolidate Australia’s position in the middle overs and ensured that there were no hiccups in the chase.
Bangladesh’s disappointing batting performance
Bangladesh’s batting performance was disappointing, considering that they had won the toss and elected to bat.
They were bowled out for 306 in 49.1 overs, with only two batsmen scoring half-centuries.
Najmul Hossain Shanto was the top scorer for Bangladesh with 74 from 82 balls. He played a patient innings and helped to lay a foundation for a big total.
However, the rest of the Bangladesh batsmen failed to capitalize on Shanto’s good start. They were all bowled out cheaply, and Australia were able to restrict them to a below-par total.
Conclusion
Australia’s victory over Bangladesh was a comprehensive one. They outplayed the Tigers in all three departments of the game and deserved to win.
Marsh’s century was the highlight of Australia’s performance. He batted brilliantly and took the game away from Bangladesh.
Warner and Smith also played important roles in Australia’s victory. They both scored half-centuries and helped to consolidate Australia’s position in the chase.
Bangladesh will be disappointed with their performance in this match. They need to improve their batting if they want to compete with the top teams in the world.