CT 2017: Match 5, Who Said What: Australia vs Bangladesh

Australia took on a spirited Bangladeshi side in the fifth match of the Champions Trophy and it was the rains which turned out as the winners yet again in a Group A fixture. Much was anticipated out of the fixture given the fact that the Australia shared a point with New Zealand in the first game at Edgbaston. Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza won the toss and opted to bat first.

As it turned out, it was a one-man show featuring Tamim Iqbal who unfortunately missed out on his consecutive ton in the Champions Trophy, as he was dismissed by Mitchell Starc while trying to accelerate during latter stages of the inning. Out of the eleven batsmen, only three were able to reach a score of double digits. Mitchell Starc ended up with four wickets in his spell which included a triple wicket maiden.

Australians were well on course with Smith and Warner in the middle, as they were cruising at 83 for the loss of only one wicket. Rain continued to play spoilsport until the game was called off. As a result, Australians, unfortunately, had to share points with the Bangladeshis. With this, Bangladeshis hopes in the tournament still remain alive. Let us look at what the two captains had to say.

Mashrafe Mortaza

The Bangladeshi captain was quick to thank his stars for the jailbreak as they were looking at a possible knockout had the rains didn’t intervene. Citing the fact that the Tigers have recently beaten the Kiwis, Mortaza seemed upbeat about their spot in the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy

Australia were unlucky, while on the other hand, we are lucky to stay alive in the tournament. This point will help us a lot. We have recently beaten New Zealand, so you never know.

Steve Smith

Australian captain Steve Smith wasn’t particularly pleased with the result for the second time in a row. Although, he did state their path becomes much simpler and defined from here on. Smith appreciated the effort of the top order batsman who appeared more decisive as compared to their game against the Kiwis. Smudge was also pleased with the efforts of his spinners namely Zampa and Head.

It was disappointing not to get game in today. We were heading down a pretty good path. Disappointing not to get a result. Tough match, but a simple equation. They were much better today and challenged the Bangladeshi bowlers. All of them bowled extremely well to restrict them to 180. Little bit. Time in the middle is always valuable. Can’t do much about the weather and now we have to move on. They were two left-hand batters for a long time and there was a strong breezy blowing as well. Head was also bowling well. I got Zampa on as soon as a right-hander came in.

All matches from Group A from here on would be interestingly placed. England take on New Zealand in the afternoon. The result of the game would define the orientation of the group.