Ind-Ban Test 1 Day 1: Ashwin’s Century, Jadeja’s 86 Lead India to Strong Position
Chennai, 19th September 2024: Ravichandran Ashwin’s sixth Test century, alongside Ravindra Jadeja’s determined innings, lifted India to a strong position at 339 for six at the close of play on day one of the first Test against Bangladesh at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
Bangladesh, having chosen to bowl first after winning the toss, struck early. Pacer Hasan Mahmud, in just his third Test, took advantage with a fiery spell, dismissing Rohit Sharma (6), Shubman Gill (0), and Virat Kohli (6) to leave India in trouble at 29 for three.
KL Rahul (16) and Rishabh Pant (39) tried to stabilize the innings, but their efforts were halted by Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Mahmud, respectively, leaving India at 144 for six.
The resilient Ashwin and Jadeja, however, staged a remarkable recovery. They put together an unbeaten 195-run partnership for the seventh wicket, showcasing both resilience and counter-attacking skill. Ashwin reached his century with a single off Shakib Al Hasan, delivering an innings featuring 12 boundaries and a six. Jadeja supported him superbly, remaining not out on 86, with nine boundaries and a six. His innings was marked by steady aggression and effective strike rotation.
The Bangladesh bowlers struggled to contain the runs as Ashwin and Jadeja’s partnership dominated. Mahmud was the standout bowler for Bangladesh with 4 for 58, and Miraz took one wicket.
India, after a challenging start, ended the day in a strong position due to the outstanding partnership between Ashwin and Jadeja. They will be key to furthering India’s advantage on day two.
