Khaled Mahmud will lead the Tigers against Steve Waugh's invincible side in the first-ever meeting between the two countries in the five-day game at the tropical northern Australian city.

Dubbed as the 'biggest mismatch' in Test history by the international media, the contest that pits David versus Goliath commences at 6 am (BST).

Although Australia's Channel Nine will beam the match live, but one thing is for sure it will not be reaching any home in Bangladesh despite enormous interest.

State-run Bangladesh Television was unable to say whether it would be showing the match live or even provide highlights of the day's play.

It is unfortunate that BTV remains lukewarm when it is an opportunity for them to cover the historic first Test. When an event like the recent Sharjah Cup, where Bangladesh did not take part was telecast live by the BTV, cricketers lovers in the country were expecting the special occasion to be shown at any expense.

While millions of TV screens will be blank, Mahmud's men will enjoy the experience of a lifetime as they attempt a battle of survival.

With a dismal record of 18 defeats and one rained-out draw in their previous 19 Test appearances, Bangladesh will be looking to build on the positives that have achieved so far on tour in Australia.

They have won two of their three warm-up matches including an exciting two-wicket victory against the Northern Territory Chief Minister's XI at the Darwin drop-in pitch.

The Marrara Oval will also be making its debut as one of Australia's two newest Test venues today, the other being Cairns which hosts the second Test over July 25-29.