Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], September 21 (ANI): Star Indian cricketer Shubman Gill expressed immense joy watching his teammate Rishabh Pant achieve significant milestones during the first Test match against Bangladesh. In the second innings, Pant showcased an impressive performance by scoring his first half-century and century post his comeback, delivering a remarkable 109-run knock off 128 balls with a strike rate of 85.16. His aggressive gameplay included 13 boundaries and 4 sixes, demonstrating his prowess and determination. Pant’s innings was brought to a close by Mehidy Hasan Miraz in the 56th over.

During the post-day press conference, Gill highlighted Pant’s hard work and perseverance following his recovery from a severe injury. “I have spent considerable time with him both on and off the field. Watching him achieve his first fifty and century after his comeback gives me immense pleasure because I have witnessed the relentless effort he has put in. I believe he must be feeling extremely satisfied,” Gill remarked.

Pant’s return to Test cricket marks a significant comeback after surviving a life-threatening road accident at the end of 2022. By the end of day three, Bangladesh were at 158/4 with skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto unbeaten at 51* alongside Shakib Al Hasan, who was not out at 5*. Bangladesh resumed the post-Tea session at 56/0, with Shadman Islam (21) and Zakir Hasan (32) at the crease.

India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah made an early breakthrough by dismissing Zakir Hasan for 33 off 47 balls. Ravichandran Ashwin then took charge, claiming three crucial wickets by removing Shadman Islam (35), Mominul Haque (13), and Mushfiqur Rahim (13).

Earlier in the second session of Day three, India resumed their innings at 205/3, with Rishabh Pant (82*) and Shubman Gill (86*) still at the crease. The duo continued to build on India’s lead, which extended to an impressive 432 runs. Gill remained unbeaten with a stellar knock of 119 runs from 176 balls, embellished with 10 boundaries and four sixes.

Middle-order batsman KL Rahul also contributed significantly, scoring an unbeaten 22 runs off 19 balls, which included four boundaries. India declared their innings at a team score of 287 for the loss of four wickets, setting a formidable target of 515 runs for Bangladesh to chase in order to win the first match of the series.