BAN vs AUS: Bangladesh Seal First Series Win Over Australia

Bangladesh captain Mahmudullah guided his side to their first ever series win over Australia on Friday, masterminding a thrilling 10-run victory in the third Twenty20 international. Having taken an un

Mahmudullah won the toss and surprisingly chose to bat after the start was delayed for more than 90 minutes by rain. He was his side's top scorer with his patient 53 ball innings, but was also the first scalp for Ellis who came in to give fast bowler Mitchell Starc a rest and made his mark in the final three balls.

As Bangladesh went for big hits, Mustafizur was then caught by Marsh and Mahedi Hasan was caught by Ashton Agar at deep square.

In response, Marsh and McDermott put on 63 for the third wicket but then the slow Dhaka wicket again took a toll. Runs became impossible to find as they were in the first two games that Bangladesh won by 35 runs and five wickets.

The Bangladesh players danced across the field in celebration at the new boost to their international standing in a Twenty20 World Cup year. They have now won seven straight T20 internationals and the night's victory was even more impressive as it was the lowest total they have ever defended to win.

Mahmudullah said the side had sat down for serious talks after their recent series win in Zimbabwe. "We felt that we were a good team even though the rankings don't show that," he said. Bangladesh are currently rated 10th by the International Cricket Council.

"We just have to play with a big heart and a balanced mind and show our skills," he said of the country's prospects at the World Cup, to be held in the United Arab Emirates in October-November.