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Australia captain Pat Cummins won the toss and elected to bat first against Bangladesh in the opening Test of the two-match series at Marrara Stadium in Darwin on Thursday.
Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto will therefore lead his side’s attack with the new ball.
The five-day Test, scheduled for August 13–17, marks Australia’s return to Test cricket in Darwin and Bangladesh’s first Test series in Australia since 2003.
The match is being played in hot and humid conditions, with the pitch offering some early movement for the fast bowlers.
Bangladesh have opted for a pace-heavy approach, with Ebadot Hossain and Mahmud Hasan included in the playing XI.
Australia, meanwhile, have brought together their experienced pace attack of Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, alongside veteran spinner Nathan Lyon.
The decision to bowl first gives Bangladesh an opportunity to exploit any early assistance from the surface and put Australia’s top order under pressure.
Early wickets will be crucial, particularly against Australia’s experienced middle order featuring Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith.
Australia’s batting also includes Cameron Green, who has been urged by Cummins to play more aggressively after a difficult recent run. Green remains an important all-round option for the hosts.
The match is the first of two Tests between the sides, with the second scheduled to begin in Mackay on August 22.
