Australia won the toss and elected to bat in the first Test of the series against Bangladesh in Darwin on August 13, 2026. Despite grass and some moisture on the pitch that could assist new-ball bowlers early, captain Pat Cummins chose to bat first. At the time of reporting, Australia were 36 without loss after 10 overs, beginning their innings cautiously while assessing the wicket's behaviour.

Bangladesh recalled wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das, while injuries ruled Nahid Rana and Shoriful Islam out of the match. Hasan Mahmud shared new-ball duties with Taskin Ahmed, and Ebadot Hossain was selected as the third fast bowler. Najmul Hossain Shanto captains the visitors, whose XI also includes Tanzeed Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam.

Josh Hazlewood returned to Australia's XI, joining Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon in the hosts' bowling attack. Travis Head and Jake Weatherald opened, while Cameron Green and Beau Webster were included as all-rounders. Bangladesh are playing a Test in Australia after 23 years and aim to maintain their recent positive Test form in Darwin.