In a thrilling day of Test cricket in Chennai, local heroes Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja showcased their mastery over familiar conditions to spearhead India’s fightback after Bangladesh pacer Hasan Mahmud’s early breakthroughs. Mahmud, who took four crucial wickets, initially had India on the ropes at 144 for six.

Chennai-born Ashwin delivered an impeccable performance, remaining unbeaten on 102, while Chennai Super Kings’ versatile all-rounder Jadeja held his ground with 86. The duo’s resilient partnership of 195 runs carried India to a more secure 339 for six by the close of play.

Ashwin’s century was his sixth in Test cricket, and it marked his second consecutive ton at his home ground in Chepauk. Last month, he led his team, Dindigul Dragons, to victory in the T20 Tamil Nadu Premier League at the same venue. His current form with the bat has been nothing short of spectacular. Reflecting on his performance, Ashwin shared his joy of playing at Chepauk and how transitioning from a T20 tournament helped him refine his batting techniques. He emphasized the importance of playing aggressively on a pitch that offered bounce and carry, drawing parallels to Rishabh Pant’s attacking style.

Ashwin also credited Jadeja for his support during the innings, noting that Jadeja’s advice to conserve energy by not pushing for extra runs was particularly valuable. The pitch, with its ample bounce and carry, promises more excitement as the match progresses, especially as spinners like Ashwin himself and Jadeja are likely to come into play.

Bangladesh’s early dominance was led by Hasan Mahmud, who justified captain Najmul Hossain Shanto’s decision to bowl first under overcast skies. Hasan struck early, reducing India to 34-3 within the first hour and later claiming another wicket after lunch. His victims included Indian stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, both dismissed cheaply for six runs each. The visitors aimed to build on their recent success in Pakistan, where they swept the series 2-0.

Despite Hasan’s efforts, India’s recovery was orchestrated by Ashwin and Jadeja. Ashwin reached his century in just 108 balls, with 12 boundaries, to the delight of the home crowd. Earlier in the innings, Yashasvi Jaiswal contributed a solid 56 and partnered with Rishabh Pant for a 62-run stand that provided some stability. Pant, playing his first Test since a serious car accident in 2022, scored 39 before falling to Hasan.

Bangladesh’s bowling attack saw contributions from other players too. Nahid Rana claimed Jaiswal’s wicket, while spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz dismissed KL Rahul for 16. Hasan’s remarkable opening spell of 3-14 had initially put India on the defensive, but the middle-order resistance ensured a competitive total by stumps.

India aims to strengthen their lead in the World Test Championship rankings with this series. The second Test is scheduled to start on September 27 in Kanpur.

Elsewhere in cricket news:
– Australia has imposed a 20-year ban on a former Sri Lankan Test player.
– Afghanistan continues their impressive run in white-ball cricket.
– Gautam Gambhir praises Indian bowlers for finally receiving due recognition.
– Adam Zampa acknowledges that his chances in the upcoming Ashes series are slim as he nears his 100th ODI appearance.