Bangladesh dare to dream of Aussie upset

Bangladesh's resounding victory over Afghanistan has hardened their belief that they can repeat their stunning 2005 upset over Cricket World Cup heavyweights Australia.

"Just because Australia are tournament favourites doesn't mean they can't be beaten," man-of-the-match wicketkeeper Mushfiqur Rahim told reporters after his side's 105-run win over World Cup debutants Afghanistan on Wednesday.

Bangladesh shocked the cricketing world back in 2005 when they beat Australia with four balls to spare in Cardiff.

And Ireland's upset win over the West Indies on Monday provided a timely reminder that big upsets are part and parcel of one-day internationals.

"The belief is there in the group," Rahim said after smashing 71 runs from 56 balls to help post a 267 total.

"Everyone talks about (Australia) being the number one team at the moment.

"So it's not going to be easy, but it's not going to be impossible either, because in the one day game, anyone can win."

Highlights of Bangladesh's win over Afghanistan

Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza and Australia's skipper Michael Clarke are the only two current international players who were involved in that famous 2005 boilover.

Mortaza sent his side on its way to victory on Wednesday in the very first over of the run chase, dismissing Afghani opener Javed Ahmadi, before he struck in his very next over to leave Afghanistan reeling at 3-3.

With Rubel Hossain launching 145kmh missiles from the other end, it was an opening spell that would have surely caught the wary eye of the Australian batsmen ahead of Saturday's clash on the pace-friendly Gabba pitch.

And just in case they didn't see Bangladesh skittle Afghanistan for just 162 runs, Mortaza (3-20) was more than happy to send them a heads-up.

"If we can bowl like that, it doesn't matter who it's against," he said.

"It doesn't matter who are the batsmen, the ball will do the rest."