Bangladesh retain unchanged squad for third ODI against Australia – A Strategic Move

Rafiq Hasan · 12/06/2026 · 5 min read

In a significant development for Bangladesh cricket, the national selectors have confirmed that Bangladesh retain unchanged squad for third ODI against Australia. This decision comes on the heels of the Tigers’ remarkable performances in the first two One-Day Internationals, where they secured a historic series victory against a strong Australian contingent. The initial squad announcement covered only the first two matches, but the subsequent triumphs have undoubtedly influenced the decision to maintain continuity and reward the players who delivered this landmark achievement.

Strategic Continuity: Rewarding Performance and Team Cohesion

The decision to field an unchanged squad for the final ODI is a clear statement of intent from the Bangladesh Cricket Board. It underscores a commitment to team cohesion and a reward for the players who have performed exceptionally well in securing the series. In the high-stakes environment of international cricket, maintaining a winning combination is often a critical factor, fostering confidence and allowing players to build on existing partnerships and strategies.

This stability is particularly crucial as Bangladesh aims for a clean sweep, a feat that would further cement their growing reputation in the global cricketing landscape. An unchanged squad signals faith in the current strategies and the individual capabilities of each player, allowing them to approach the third ODI with a strong sense of purpose and a clear understanding of their roles.

Mosaddek Hossain’s Triumphant Return

One of the most compelling narratives within the retained squad is the impactful return of all-rounder Mosaddek Hossain. His inclusion in the initial squad was a notable talking point, and he wasted no time in justifying the selectors’ faith. Delivering a match-winning performance in his comeback match, Hossain showcased his invaluable all-round abilities, contributing significantly with both bat and ball. His ability to perform under pressure and make a tangible difference in critical moments highlights his importance to the team’s balance and success.

Hossain’s resurgence provides the team with greater depth and flexibility, offering another reliable option in crucial phases of the game. His performance serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that perseverance and talent can lead to a successful return to the international arena.

A Historic Series Victory for the Tigers

The significance of this series cannot be overstated for Bangladesh cricket. Having already sealed the ODI series by winning the opening two matches against Australia, the Tigers have achieved a landmark feat. This victory marks the first time Bangladesh has defeated Australia in an ODI series since 2005, ending a protracted 21-year wait. The back-to-back victories represent one of Bangladesh’s most memorable ODI series wins in recent memory, sparking widespread celebration among fans and critics alike.

For over two decades, Australian teams have largely dominated encounters against Bangladesh in the ODI format. Breaking this long-standing drought not only boosts the morale of the current squad but also inspires a new generation of cricketers. It signifies a coming of age for Bangladesh cricket, showcasing their evolution into a formidable force capable of challenging the world’s top teams consistently.

The tactical acumen displayed by the captain, the disciplined bowling, and the resilient batting performances have all contributed to this historic outcome. This series win will undoubtedly be etched into the annals of Bangladesh cricket history as a pivotal moment of triumph and defiance.

The Quest for a Clean Sweep

With the series already secured, Bangladesh now sets its sights on an even more ambitious goal: a clean sweep. Taking on Australia in the third and final ODI, the Tigers will be eager to complete a 3-0 whitewash, an achievement that would amplify the historical significance of this series victory. The match is scheduled for June 14 at the iconic Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, with play commencing at 11:00 AM local time.

Achieving a clean sweep against a team of Australia’s caliber would send a powerful message to the cricketing world, demonstrating Bangladesh’s dominance and unwavering intent. While the pressure of winning the series has been alleviated, the desire to finish strong and maintain their winning momentum will be paramount for Mehidy Hasan Miraz‘s side.

Australia, on the other hand, will be playing for pride and looking to salvage some dignity from the tour. They will be keen to avoid a whitewash and will undoubtedly come out with renewed determination, making the third ODI an intriguing contest despite the series outcome being decided.

Squads for the Third ODI

Bangladesh Squad:

Mehidy Hasan Miraz (captain)
Soumya Sarkar
Saif Hassan
Tanzid Hasan Tamim
Najmul Hossain Shanto (vice-captain)
Towhid Hridoy
Litton Das
Mosaddek Hossain
Nurul Hasan Sohan
Rishad Hossain
Tanvir Islam
Mustafizur Rahman
Taskin Ahmed
Shoriful Islam
Nahid Rana

The retained squad highlights a blend of experienced campaigners and exciting young talent, all contributing to the team’s current success. The leadership of Mehidy Hasan Miraz, coupled with key performers like Mosaddek Hossain and the frontline bowlers, provides a strong foundation.

Australia ODI Squad:

Josh Inglis (captain)
Xavier Bartlett
Alex Carey
Cooper Connolly
Ben Dwarshuis
Nathan Ellis
Cameron Green
Matt Kuhnemann
Marnus Labuschagne
Todd Murphy
Ollie Peake
Matt Renshaw
Liam Scott
Matt Short
Adam Zampa

Australia’s squad, led by Josh Inglis, features a mix of established international players and promising newcomers. Despite their struggles in the series, players like Marnus Labuschagne and Adam Zampa possess the quality to turn a game around, making them dangerous opponents even when playing for pride.

Conclusion

The upcoming third ODI between Bangladesh and Australia is more than just a dead rubber; it is an opportunity for Bangladesh to assert their dominance with a clean sweep and for Australia to restore some pride. The decision that Bangladesh retain unchanged squad for third ODI against Australia reflects a strategic continuity that has brought them historic success. As the cricketing world watches, the Tigers will be eager to cap off an unforgettable series with another stellar performance, further solidifying their place among the elite in international cricket.

Rafiq Hasan

Rafiq Hasan is the chief cricket correspondent for The Daily Star, Bangladesh's largest English-language newspaper. Over his two-decade career, he has chronicked the rise of Bangladesh cricket from perennial underdogs to a formidable force in world cricket. Hasan has covered every major ICC event featuring Bangladesh and reported from the press boxes of Lord's, the MCG, and Mirpur. He has a deep understanding of the country's cricket ecosystem—from the Dhaka Premier League rivalries to the politics of the BCB. Known for his balanced analysis and insider access to the dressing room, he wrote the widely acclaimed long-form series "Tigers' Roar: How Bangladesh Changed the Cricket Map." A graduate of the University of Dhaka, Hasan is also a respected voice on global cricket diplomacy, exploring how the sport affects the balance of power in South Asia.