1st Test Day 1: India Dominates with 339/6 at Stumps, Bangladesh Trails in Chase
The first day of the first Test between India and Bangladesh in Dhaka saw the Indian team take control with a commanding performance, leaving Bangladesh with a mountain to climb on Day 2. India declared their innings at 339/6, setting a challenging target for the hosts.
India's Strong Start and Solid Middle Order
The day began with India winning the toss and electing to bat first. KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma, the openers, got India off to a strong start, putting on 50 runs for the first wicket.
While Rohit Sharma fell for 24, KL Rahul, the stand-in captain, continued his good form and played a crucial knock of 89 runs before being dismissed by Taijul Islam.
Virat Kohli, batting at number 4, played a captain's knock of 112 runs. He looked in complete control throughout his innings, showcasing his class and experience. Pujara, batting at number 3, provided solid support to Kohli, scoring 90 runs.
A Crucial Partnership between Kohli and Pujara
Kohli and Pujara put on a crucial 171-run partnership for the fourth wicket, laying the foundation for India's dominant total. This partnership was the key to India's success, allowing them to gain a significant lead over Bangladesh.
Bangladesh's Struggles in the Field
Bangladesh's bowlers struggled to find their rhythm, with only Taijul Islam taking more than two wickets. The Bangladesh fielders also failed to hold onto catches, which allowed India to further extend their lead.
Bangladesh's Late Fightback
Bangladesh did manage to bounce back towards the end of the day. Taijul Islam, the left-arm spinner, bowled beautifully and picked up three wickets. Khaled Ahmed, the left-arm quick, also bagged a wicket. However, it was too little too late.
Bangladesh's Difficult Task Ahead
Bangladesh faces a mammoth task on Day 2. They will need to bat exceptionally well to avoid being bowled out cheaply. The Indian bowlers, led by Ravichandran Ashwin, will be eager to take early wickets and put pressure on the Bangladesh batsmen.
Key Highlights of Day 1:
- KL Rahul (89), Virat Kohli (112), and Cheteshwar Pujara (90) were the top scorers for India.
- Taijul Islam (3/73) was the pick of the Bangladesh bowlers.
- India declared their innings at 339/6, leaving Bangladesh with a challenging target.
Day 2 will be crucial for Bangladesh. They need to show resilience and fight back if they want to stay in this Test match.
