'Tough tour': Mitchell Marsh hopes Australia bounce back against Bangladesh
What's the story
Skipper Mitchell Marsh has expressed confidence in Australia's ability to bounce back in the three-match T20I series against Bangladesh. The first match will be played in Chattogram on June 17, followed by two more matches on June 19 and 21. Despite a disappointing ODI series loss (2-1), Marsh is optimistic about his team's prospects with the return of several senior players.
Player spotlight
Tim David's return boosts Australian squad
Marsh was particularly excited about the return of dashed Tim David, who he called one of the best middle-order players in T20 cricket. "I think anytime you welcome, in my opinion, one of the best middle-order players in the world into your team - experienced and really confident in his ability - it's a huge boost," Marsh told reporters ahead of the 1st T20I.
Series anticipation
Fresh faces to provide energy
Marsh acknowledged that the tour has been tough so far, but he is hopeful about winning this series and playing some really good cricket. He said, "No doubt it's been a tough tour, but we're going in with high hopes of winning this series and playing some really good cricket." The captain also highlighted the presence of fresh faces and young players in his squad who will provide great energy for the challenge ahead against Bangladesh.
Opponent assessment
On Bangladesh's fast-bowling resources
Marsh also noted Bangladesh's emerging fast-bowling resources and said they shouldn't be taken lightly. The pacers were instrumental in helping the side clinch its maiden ODI series against Australia in Dhaka. "I think it's really exciting for Bangladesh cricket to have some quick bowlers," Marsh said, adding that he looks forward to the challenge of playing against them in this format now.
New experience
New ground, exciting challenge ahead
Marsh also expressed his excitement about playing on a new ground in Chattogram, saying it looks like a nice surface and is sure to provide an entertaining game of cricket. He said, "I've never been here and never played at this ground, so it's new and exciting for me too." The captain concluded by saying Bangladesh are a well-rounded side who have been playing good cricket lately.
Record
Bangladesh vs Australia: Head-to-head record
Between 2007 and 2024, Bangladesh and Australia clashed in 11 T20Is. While Australia won seven games, Bangladesh won the five-match home series in 2021 (4-1). At the Men's ICC T20 World Cup, Australia have a 6-0 lead over Bangladesh. Notably, Mahmudullah remains the only Bangladesh captain to have won a T20I against Australia. It was under him that the hosts beat Australia in 2021.