New Delhi: The Indian cricket team has maintained its dominance in the first Test match against Bangladesh up until the end of Day 3. As of the close of play, Bangladesh reached a score of 158/4 in their second innings. Skipper Najmul Hosain Shanto, who remains unbeaten on 51*, and Shakib Al Hasan, not out on 5*, are striving to stave off the relentless Indian bowling attack. With two days remaining, Bangladesh faces a daunting task, needing an additional 357 runs to secure victory.

Ravichandran Ashwin has been instrumental in India’s bowling success, claiming three crucial wickets. His victims include Shadman Islam, who scored 35 runs off 68 balls, Mominul Haque with 13 runs off 24 balls, and Mushfiqur Rahim who was dismissed for 13 runs off 11 deliveries. Jasprit Bumrah also made a significant impact by taking the wicket of Zakir Hasan, who contributed 33 runs from 47 balls.

India’s strong position is built on a formidable first-innings total of 376 runs. However, they experienced a minor collapse in their second innings, ending Day 2 at 81/3. Nevertheless, standout performances from Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant bolstered their tally. Gill, who remained unbeaten on the previous day, completed a magnificent century, scoring 119* off 176 balls. Rishabh Pant also showcased his prowess by scoring an impressive 109 off 128 balls. KL Rahul added a swift 22* from 19 balls, aiding India’s declaration at 287/4 and setting a mammoth target of 515 runs for Bangladesh.

The visitors struggled significantly in their first innings, collapsing to a total of just 149 due to India’s relentless bowling attack.

Highlights of the day include R Ashwin surpassing Anil Kumble to become the Indian bowler with the most wickets in the fourth innings of Test matches. Ashwin has now taken 96 wickets in the fourth innings, edging past Kumble’s record of 94 wickets.

In another notable achievement, Rishabh Pant has equaled M.S. Dhoni’s record for the most Test centuries by an Indian wicketkeeper. Pant’s sixth Test century came in just his 58th innings as a wicketkeeper-batsman, showcasing his exceptional talent and consistency.

Overall, India’s commanding position in the match is underscored by stellar individual performances and strategic team efforts, leaving Bangladesh with a Herculean task ahead.