Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], September 21 (ANI): In a thrilling display of talent and determination, star Indian cricketer Shubman Gill expressed immense joy witnessing his teammate Rishabh Pant achieve significant milestones. Pant’s remarkable innings during the second inning of the first Test match against Bangladesh saw him score his maiden half-century and century, a feat that left Gill deeply gratified.

Rishabh Pant delivered an impressive 109-run performance from 128 balls, maintaining a robust strike rate of 85.16. His commanding presence on the crease included 13 fours and 4 sixes. This stellar performance was eventually halted by Mehidy Hasan Miraz in the 56th over of India’s second innings, marking a pivotal moment in the match.

At the post-day press conference, Shubman Gill highlighted Pant’s arduous journey back to form following a serious injury. “I’ve spent considerable time with him both on and off the field. Seeing him score his first fifty and then his first century after such a challenging comeback is incredibly rewarding. His hard work and resilience are truly commendable, and I believe he must be feeling equally elated,” Gill remarked.

Rishabh Pant’s return to Test cricket came after a harrowing road accident at the end of 2022. His comeback in the two-match series against Bangladesh was not just a personal triumph but also a testament to his unwavering spirit and dedication to the sport.

By the end of day three, Bangladesh found themselves at 158/4, with captain Najmul Hossain Shanto unbeaten at 51* and Shakib Al Hasan at 5*. Bangladesh commenced the post-Tea session at 56/0, with Shadman Islam (21) and Zakir Hasan (32) holding steady on the crease. However, India’s Jasprit Bumrah struck early in the session, dismissing Zakir for 33 from 47 balls. Ravichandran Ashwin further dented Bangladesh’s innings by taking three crucial wickets: Shadman Islam (35), Mominul Haque (13), and Mushfiqur Rahim (13).

Earlier in the day, India resumed their innings at 205/3, with Rishabh Pant (82*) and Shubman Gill (86*) still at the crease. Gill continued to shine, crafting an unbeaten knock of 119 runs from 176 balls, including 10 boundaries and four sixes. Middle-order batter KL Rahul also contributed significantly with an unbeaten 22 runs off 19 balls, adorned with four boundaries.

India declared their innings at 287/4, setting an imposing target of 515 runs for Bangladesh to chase in order to clinch the first match of the series. This strategic declaration underscored India’s dominance and tactical acumen on the field.

As the match progressed, it became clear that India’s combined efforts and individual brilliance were pivotal in establishing a commanding position against Bangladesh.