Australia and Bangladesh are set to renew their red-ball rivalry with a two-Test series beginning on August 13 at Marrara Cricket Ground in Darwin. The contest carries added significance as Test cricket returns to Darwin after more than two decades, while Bangladesh return to Australian shores for their first Test series there since 2003. The series is also part of the 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship cycle, giving both teams plenty to play for. Australia enter the contest as the WTC table leaders, while Bangladesh sit fourth and will be determined to make a statement against one of the world’s strongest Test sides.
Darwin provides an intriguing Test challenge
The opening Test will bring a different flavour to Australia’s traditional home conditions. Darwin’s warm winter climate could create an interesting battle between bat and ball, with the surface expected to offer assistance to the quicks early on before potentially becoming more helpful to spin as the match progresses.
For Bangladesh, adapting quickly will be essential. Playing Test cricket in Australia’s northern conditions presents a challenge of its own, and their ability to withstand Australia’s new-ball attack could determine how competitive they remain. The second Test will be played at Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay from August 22, giving both sides another unfamiliar setting in which to finish the series.
Australia welcome back their premier bowling attack
Australia have received a major boost with Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon all returning to the Test side. Their availability means Mitchell Starc, Cummins and Hazlewood will form a formidable pace combination, while Lyon provides the spin threat.
Hazlewood’s comeback is particularly notable after he missed the entire Ashes series because of injury. Cummins has also had a disrupted period in Test cricket, while Lyon’s Ashes campaign ended prematurely because of a hamstring problem.
Australia have confirmed a strong XI for the opening Test, with Darwin-born Jake Weatherald set to open alongside Travis Head. Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith follow, while Cameron Green, Alex Carey and Beau Webster provide depth in the middle order.
Bangladesh face selection and experience challenges
Bangladesh will arrive with some important absences in their bowling department. Nahid Rana and Shoriful Islam are unavailable because of injuries, leaving Taskin Ahmed and Hasan Mahmud with greater responsibility alongside experienced left-arm spinner Taijul Islam.
The visitors will also look to their senior batters to handle Australia’s formidable attack. Litton Das has returned to the squad after recovering from a calf problem and adds experience and attacking intent to the batting unit.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz could be Bangladesh’s biggest all-round threat. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him particularly valuable if the Darwin surface begins to deteriorate. He also arrives with confidence after producing an unbeaten century in the warm-up match against the CA XI.
AUS vs BAN, Test series: Complete schedule
| Date | Match Details | Timings (IST, GMT and Local) |
|---|---|---|
| Thu, Aug 13, 2026 | 1st Test • Darwin, Marrara Cricket Ground Australia vs Bangladesh |
6:00 AM IST / 12:30 AM GMT / 10:00 AM LOCAL Match starts at Aug 13, 00:30 GMT |
| Sat, Aug 22, 2026 | 2nd Test • Mackay, Great Barrier Reef Arena Australia vs Bangladesh |
5:30 AM IST / 12:00 AM GMT / 10:00 AM LOCAL Match starts at Aug 22, 00:00 GMT |
AUS vs BAN, Broadcast and Live Streaming details
- India: Yet to be announced
- Australia: Channel Seven, 7plus, Kayo Sports and Foxtel
- United Kingdom: DAZN
- Sri Lanka: Dialog TV and Star Sports 1
- USA and Canada: Sling TV – Willow TV (sign up here)
- New Zealand: SkySports 3
- Pakistan: Tapmad
- Bangladesh: T Sports
- South Africa: SuperSport
