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This remarkable performance marked Marsh’s second century of the World Cup, ensuring Australia’s smooth pursuit of their target of 307, with 32 balls to spare.
AS IT HAPPENED: AUS vs BAN
The victory, which also featured a 120-run partnership with David Warner (53) and an unbroken 175-run stand with Steve Smith, was particularly significant as it guaranteed Australia a spot in the last four, where they are set to clash with South Africa in the semifinals.
Marsh’s innings, characterized by his strength in driving and playing square of the wicket, spanned 132 balls, including 17 fours and nine sixes.
This century, his third in 87 one-day internationals, surpassed his previous best of 121 against Pakistan earlier in the tournament.
The all-rounder’s stellar performance overshadowed Bangladesh’s total of 306-8, which, although their highest in the tournament, proved insufficient against Australia’s relentless pursuit.
Nasum Ahmed’s 10 wicketless overs, costing 85 runs, reflected the challenge faced by the Bangladesh attack, particularly in the absence of captain Shakib Al Hasan, sidelined due to a broken finger.
Australia’s victory, their seventh consecutive win in the group stage, marked a strong rebound from their initial two defeats in the quest for a record-extending sixth men’s World Cup title.
Despite the absence of Glenn Maxwell, rested for the match, Australia demonstrated dominance over Bangladesh, leaving the latter dependent on other results for a top-eight finish that would secure qualification for the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan.
Travis Head’s early dismissal for 10 did little to hamper Australia’s pursuit, as Warner and Marsh set the stage for a comfortable victory. Marsh, in particular, showcased his power-hitting prowess by dispatching Mustafizur Rahman for a six and a four before experiencing a bout of cramps.
In the earlier part of the match, Towhid Hridoy’s resilient innings of 74, his maiden World Cup fifty, stood out in the Bangladesh innings.
However, Adam Zampa’s bowling prowess, claiming 2-32, and Marnus Labuschagne’s expert run-outs of Najmul Hossain Shanto (45) and Mahmudullah (32) derailed Bangladesh’s batting momentum.
Hridoy’s departure, caught off Marcus Stoinis, triggered a flurry of wickets, ultimately setting the stage for Australia’s successful chase.
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