New Delhi [India], September 21 (ANI): Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar delved into Shubman Gill’s impressive resurgence in red-ball cricket, noting that his Test career had previously encountered significant obstacles.

In the second inning of the first Test against Bangladesh, Shubman Gill showcased his batting prowess by scoring a commendable 119 runs off 176 balls, maintaining a strike rate of 67.61 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. His innings were adorned with 10 fours and 4 sixes, underscoring his aggressive and confident approach at the crease.

Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Manjrekar reflected on Gill’s earlier opportunities, which came against less formidable opponents. Despite these chances, Gill struggled to deliver substantial performances.

“Gill’s Test career had somewhat deviated from its promising start. He began with a remarkable performance against Australia in Australia, scoring a memorable 90. However, subsequent opportunities against weaker oppositions in India did not yield significant scores. He also faced challenging tours, including a tough stint in South Africa, and later faltered in the Hyderabad Test,” Manjrekar explained.

At the close of day three, Bangladesh was positioned at 158/4. Their captain, Najmul Hossain Shanto, remained unbeaten with a resilient 51*, alongside Shakib Al Hasan, who was on 5*. Bangladesh resumed the post-Tea session at 56/0, with Shadman Islam (21) and Zakir Hasan (32) holding firm at the crease.

Jasprit Bumrah provided an early breakthrough for India in the session by dismissing Zakir Hasan for 33 off 47 balls. Ravichandran Ashwin further dismantled the Bangladeshi lineup by claiming the wickets of Shadman Islam (35), Mominul Haque (13), and Mushfiqur Rahim (13).

The second session of Day three saw India resuming their innings at 205/3, with Rishabh Pant (82*) and Shubman Gill (86*) unbeaten at the crease. By this point, India had established a commanding lead of 432 runs.

Rishabh Pant went on to score a century, marking a triumphant return to Test cricket. Meanwhile, Gill continued his stellar form, remaining unbeaten with a score of 119 from 176 balls, inclusive of 10 boundaries and four sixes.

KL Rahul also contributed significantly with a valuable knock of 22 not out from just 19 balls, embellished with four boundaries.

India declared their innings at 287/4, setting a formidable target of 515 runs for Bangladesh to chase in order to secure victory in the first match of the series.