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DHAKA, Aug 22, 2026 (BSS) - Bangladesh fast bowler Shoriful Islam believes 
his side can still fight back in the second Test against Australia despite 
being bowled out for just 64 on the opening day at Great Barrier Reef Arena 
in Mackay today.

Famed Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc claimed six wickets to spark a 
sensetional Bangladesh collapse, leaving the visitors in serious trouble. 

But Shoriful responded with a career-best six-wicket haul as Australia 
reached 165-8 at stumps, giving the hosts a 101-run lead.

"The message in the dressing room was that the game is not over yet. We still 
have a chance," Shoriful said after Day 1 play.

Shariful dismissed Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Beau 
Webster, Pat Cummins and Starc to give Bangladesh a lifeline after their 
batting collapse.

The left-arm pacer credited the conditions for his success, saying the wind 
and his height helped generate extra movement.

"There was a bit of wind from the side we were bowling from, and our height 
also helped. Because of that, the ball was swinging a little more," he 
remarked.

Shoriful revealed that watching Starc's devastating spell earlier in the day 
gave him an opportunity to study the conditions.

"Fast bowlers always do well in Australian conditions. Starc has been bowling 
well for a long time. I was watching which length gives the bowlers the best 
advantage," he said.

Shoriful was also Bangladesh's top scorer, making 14 from 19 balls at No. 11. 
He and Taijul Islam added 25 for the final wicket to prevent Bangladesh from 
being dismissed for an even lower total.

"It wasn't easy to bat on this wicket. But it wasn't only us; they were also 
struggling. InshaAllah, we will do better in the next innings," he opined

The lanky pacer suggested the toss played a major role, with the new ball 
offering significant assistance to the bowlers.

"The new ball was swinging a little here, and they took advantage of that. 
Maybe we can try to make use of it in the next match," he said.

Shoriful dismissed Starc during Australia's innings after the Australian had 
earlier claimed his wicket. However, he insisted there was no sense of 
personal revenge.

"No, no, you can't look at it that way. He got me out, and I also tried to 
get him out. It happened, Alhamdulillah," he said.

Despite Bangladesh's difficult position after the first day, Shoriful is 
confident that the match was far from over.

"The first day is gone. We batted poorly today, but InshaAllah, let's see 
what happens and how much we can fight back in the second innings."