Australia drew the two-match series against Bangladesh 1–1 with a one-sided win that ended at tea on day two in Mackay. Bangladesh had taken the opening Test in Darwin by nine wickets.
How the Mackay Test unfolded
Mitchell Starc led the way for Australia, taking 6/12 as Bangladesh were dismissed for 64 in their first innings. Australia replied with 210, Cameron Green making an unbeaten 51. Shoriful Islam was Bangladesh’s best bowler, finishing with 6/35.
Bangladesh’s second innings fared little better and ended on 95, handing Australia victory by an innings.
World Test Championship table
| Rank | Team | PCT |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Australia | 80.00% |
| 2 | South Africa | 75.00% |
| 3 | New Zealand | 72.22% |
| 4 | Bangladesh | 55.56% |
| 5 | India | 53.33% |
| 6 | Sri Lanka | 33.33% |
| 7 | England | 29.76% |
| 8 | West Indies | 20.83% |
| 9 | Pakistan | 19.05% |
What the result means
Australia remain first with 96 points and a points percentage of 80.00%, which strengthens their position in the race for the final. South Africa are second on 75.00% and New Zealand third on 72.22%.
Bangladesh stay fourth, though their percentage has dropped from 66.67% to 55.56% after the Mackay defeat. They have three wins, two losses and one draw from six matches. India are fifth with 64 points and 53.33%.
What comes next
Australia’s next big assignment is a three-Test series against South Africa starting on October 19, 2026. With the two sides occupying the top two places, it could help decide the leading contenders for the 2027 final.
Bangladesh’s campaign has still been a strong one, built on their historic win in Darwin. They will need more consistent results in their remaining Tests to stay in the hunt for a final place.
