Australia avoided a one-day international series whitewash against Bangladesh after securing a dramatic one-wicket victory in the third ODI at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.
Chasing 275, Australia reached 277-9 in 49.3 overs, with Cooper Connolly producing a match-winning innings of 149 from 134 balls, including 13 fours and six sixes. His maiden ODI century laid the foundation for Australia's successful pursuit and earned him the Player of the Match award.
Bangladesh, who elected to bat first, posted 274-5 in their 50 overs. Towhid Hridoy led the innings with 83 from 88 deliveries, while Litton Das remained unbeaten on 58 and Mosaddek Hossain struck an unbeaten 56 from 51 balls. Najmul Hossain Shanto contributed 24 and Tanzid Hasan added 19.
Australia's bowling effort was led by Xavier Bartlett and Matt Renshaw, who claimed two wickets apiece. Ben Dwarshuis also took a wicket, while Cameron Green delivered an economical spell.
Australia suffered early setbacks in reply, losing Josh Inglis, Matt Renshaw and Alex Carey inside the opening 12 overs. Connolly steadied the innings and added valuable partnerships with Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green and Oliver Peake to keep the chase on course.
Shoriful Islam produced a superb spell for Bangladesh, taking 6-48, while Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman and Mahedi Hasan claimed one wicket each. Bangladesh reduced Australia to 271-9 when Mustafizur dismissed Connolly, but the visitors held their nerve to cross the target with three balls remaining.
Despite the defeat, Bangladesh secured the three-match ODI series 2-1. Mosaddek Hossain was named Player of the Series for his performances throughout the contest.
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