Shanto ‘focused on process, not result’ despite being on top

Bangladesh may be firmly in control of the first Test against Australia, but captain Najmul Hossain Shanto says his side are refusing to look too far ahead, insisting their focus remains on the process rather than the result.

The Tigers entered the Test in Darwin hoping simply to play five days of competitive cricket, but three days into the match they find themselves in a commanding position after producing an impressive all-round performance.

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“That was the plan, that we should try to at least play five days of cricket, but the way we showed character and the way we played the last three days is outstanding,” Shanto told Fox Cricket after third day's play.

“So, really happy to see them play like this.”

Bangladesh bowled Australia out for 198 in the first innings before taking a 228-run lead. They then reduced the hosts to 161 for four by stumps on the third day, leaving Australia 67 runs behind with six wickets remaining.

Despite being in such a strong position, Shanto said Bangladesh are not allowing thoughts of victory to distract them.

“We’re looking at session-by-session, not the outcome, but following the process,” he said.

Australia, however, still have a route back into the contest. Their rearguard effort has given them about a 15 per cent chance of victory on Fox Win, with former Australia batter Mark Waugh saying the figure was “about right”.

“The first session tomorrow if Australia don’t lose a wicket and they wipe off that 67 (run deficit), then it might move up to about 30 per cent,” Waugh added.

Cameron Green, unbeaten on 43, will be central to those hopes alongside Alex Carey, who is not out on 19.

Former Australia wicketkeeper Alyssa Healy believes the fourth morning presents a major opportunity for Green, who has faced scrutiny in recent times.

“It’s a big innings for Cameron Green,” she said. “If he can start well tomorrow and get himself a big score, and keep everyone externally quiet, he’s going to give Australia a real shot at getting a win.”

Bangladesh, meanwhile, will look to maintain the approach that has taken them to this position.