New Delhi: On a crisp Chennai morning, Team India found themselves on the back foot early in the game as several of their key batters failed to deliver against a spectacular fast bowling performance by Bangladesh. However, thanks to the exceptional efforts of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, India managed to end Day 1 of the first Test with a respectable score of 339/6.
**Struggles of Star Batters**
Having returned to Test cricket after a five-month hiatus, the Indian team was met with high expectations from their fans, who anticipated a solid batting display. Unfortunately, the first day at Chennai’s red-soil pitch did not go as planned. Esteemed players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and KL Rahul struggled to find their footing against Bangladesh’s formidable fast bowlers. Each of these experienced batsmen played subpar shots that led to their premature dismissals, disappointing fans and pundits alike.
Hasan Mahmud was the star of Bangladesh’s bowling attack. He made an early impact by sending Indian captain Rohit Sharma back to the pavilion for just six runs in the sixth over. Sharma tried to defend a good-length ball, but the ball seamed away, taking the outside edge of his bat, and was comfortably caught by Shanto at second slip.
Mahmud continued his impressive form by dismissing Shubman Gill for a duck. Gill attempted a leg-side flick but only managed an inside edge, which was safely collected by wicketkeeper Litton Das. Mahmud’s third victim was none other than Virat Kohli, who also scored just six runs. Kohli attempted to drive a full outside-off delivery but only managed to edge it to the keeper.
KL Rahul came in at No. 6 following Rishabh Pant’s dismissal for 39 runs by Mahmud. Rahul faced 51 balls but could only score 16 runs before giving away his wicket. Notably, Jaiswal and Pant had built a commendable 62-run partnership before Pant’s departure.
**Local Heroes Shine on Day 1**
In what was a remarkable turnaround, local hero Ravichandran Ashwin and Chennai Super Kings’ player Ravindra Jadeja showcased their resilience and skill. They formed an unbeaten 195-run partnership for the seventh wicket, rescuing India from a precarious position of 144/6.
Ashwin reached his sixth Test century with an outstanding knock of 102 not out off 122 balls. Jadeja also contributed significantly with an unbeaten 86 off 117 deliveries. Their partnership not only steadied the Indian innings but also set a solid foundation for Day 2, with hopes high that they will add more runs to the scoreboard when play resumes in Chennai.
Their combined effort was a testament to their batting prowess and ability to perform under pressure, providing a glimmer of hope for Team India as they look forward to building on this momentum in the days to come.