Chennai, Tamil Nadu [India], September 16 (ANI): Ahead of the highly anticipated Test series opener against Bangladesh, Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma was seen sharpening his skills during a rigorous practice session at Chennai’s iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium. This series, comprising two matches, is set to ignite on September 19, with the second Test scheduled to commence on September 27 in Kanpur.

Rohit Sharma, the prolific batsman and leader of the Indian side, shared glimpses of this practice session on his Instagram, showcasing moments of intense preparation and even a bit of football to keep the spirits high. These snapshots not only highlighted his dedication but also provided fans with a sneak peek into the team’s preparatory routines.

Joining Rohit Sharma in these preparations were ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant. Pant’s presence is particularly noteworthy as he marks his return to Test cricket following a life-threatening accident in December 2022. The Indian squad, led by Rohit, is bolstered by fresh talent with pacers Akash Deep and Yash Dayal earning their maiden call-ups, adding depth and vigor to the bowling attack.

Currently dominating the World Test Championship (WTC) standings with an impressive points percentage of 68.52, India is poised for a series of challenging encounters. After clashing with Bangladesh, they are set to face New Zealand in a three-Test home series followed by a five-Test away series against Australia.

Bangladesh arrives in formidable form, having recently achieved a historic 2-0 series whitewash against Pakistan on their home turf. Their victories—a commanding 10-wicket triumph in the first Test and a six-wicket win in the second—underscore their capability and confidence heading into this series.

India’s squad for the first Test against Bangladesh includes: Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, and Yash Dayal.

The Bangladesh squad is captained by Najmul Hossain Shanto and features players like Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Kumer Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Nahid Rana, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, Syed Khaled Ahmed, and Jaker Ali Anik.

As both teams gear up for this exciting clash, cricket enthusiasts around the world eagerly await what promises to be a thrilling Test series filled with competitive spirit and exceptional performances.