Taskin Ahmed. Photo: video screenshot

DHAKA, June 11, 2026 (BSS) - Bangladesh pace spearhead Taskin Ahmed believes 
an explosive opening spell and the evolution of the country's fast-bowling 
unit was instrumental in the team's historic ODI series victory over 
Australia.

Bangladesh sealed their maiden ODI series win against Australia with a five-
wicket victory in the second match on DLS method at the Sher-e-Bangla 
National Cricket Stadium today.

A new ball burst led by Taskin and Mustafizur Rahma reduced the visitors to 
0-3 inside the opening seven deliveries, paving the way for a yet another 
crushing victory.

Taskin said the early breakthroughs created immense pressure on Australia and 
gave Bangladesh a significant psychological advantage.

"If the start is good, the opposition is always under pressure," he said. 
"There was a bit of seam movement in the morning and when Mustafiz and I got 
off to a good start, it made things easier for us. That kind of start gives 
extra confidence to the whole team."

The right-arm pacer said Bangladesh's success stemmed from meticulous 
planning rather than individual brilliance.

"We have detailed analysis on every batter and bowler. We know their 
strengths and weaknesses. As fast bowlers, when we are in rhythm, it becomes 
easier to execute those plans," he said.

Taskin also praised captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz for his resilience after 
suffering a blow to the head during Bangladesh's chase.
 
"He was feeling dizzy but is much better now. He did a great job under 
pressure and helped the team finish the game," Taskin said.

Taskin however cited Australia's dramatic collapse as a special moment for 
Bangladesh cricket.

"It is a great feeling. We are playing and winning on good wickets against a 
strong Australian side. This achievement is special because no one can say we 
are winning on poor pitches. We are playing good cricket on good wickets."

The pacer believes Bangladesh's commitment to preparing and competing on 
better surfaces will help the team adapt more effectively to overseas 
conditions in countries like Australia and South Africa.

"For the last few years we have been trying to improve by playing on good 
wickets and in challenging conditions. The more we do that, the easier it 
becomes to adapt abroad," he said.

Taskin also brought the growing depth of Bangladesh's pace resources to the 
fore, singling out young speedster Nahid Rana who created a sensation of 
late.

"It is a great achievement for the country to have a genuine express fast 
bowler like Nahid. The Australian batters were uncomfortable against him. As 
a pace-bowling unit, we are improving together and that is our biggest 
achievement."

Asked where Bangladesh's fast-bowling group ranks in world cricket, Taskin 
offered a bold assessment.

"I believe we are doing well enough to be among the top three pace attacks in 
the world," he said.

The 31-year-old described the series triumph as one of the most memorable 
moments of his career, particularly because it came against Australia on 
batting-friendly surfaces.

"This is the first ODI series we have won against them. It will be memorable 
for all of us. The most comforting thing is that we are winning by playing 
good cricket on good wickets against a team like Australia," he added.

Bangladesh now lead the three-match series 2-0 and will seek a clean sweep in 
the final ODI on next Sunday.