Ashwin's Century Leads India to Dominant Day 1 Against Bangladesh
India enjoyed a dominant first day in the first Test against Bangladesh at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram, thanks to a magnificent century from veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. The all-rounder, who came in to bat at number 7, smashed 123 runs off 173 balls, his 9th Test century, and anchored the Indian innings to a strong total of 258/4 at stumps.
Ashwin Shines in a Century Stand with Shreyas Iyer
After a shaky start where India lost both openers cheaply, Shreyas Iyer and Cheteshwar Pujara steadied the ship with a 52-run partnership. However, Bangladesh's spinners, Taijul Islam and Shakib Al Hasan, struck back, removing both batsmen and leaving India at 91/4.
This is where Ashwin stepped up. He joined forces with Iyer, who himself was in fine form, and together they put on a 148-run stand for the fifth wicket. Ashwin was particularly aggressive, hitting 15 fours and a six, and looked in complete control of the bowling. He reached his century off just 148 balls, becoming only the fifth Indian to score a century on the first day of a Test in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh's Bowlers Struggle to Contain India's Batting
Bangladesh's bowling attack, despite some early breakthroughs, struggled to contain the Indian batsmen throughout the day. The lack of pace in the attack allowed Ashwin and Iyer to dictate terms, and they were able to score runs freely. The spinners, while successful in taking early wickets, were not able to create enough pressure later in the innings.
India Looking to Build a Substantial Lead on Day 2
India's position at the end of the day is extremely strong. With Ashwin and Iyer still at the crease, they are well-placed to score a big total and take a substantial lead in the first innings. Bangladesh will need to bowl with greater accuracy and intensity on day 2 if they are to keep India from building a commanding lead.
Key Takeaways from Day 1:
- Ashwin's heroics: His century was the highlight of the day and put India in a dominant position.
- Iyer's solid performance: He played a key role in anchoring the innings and ensuring that India did not collapse after losing early wickets.
- Bangladesh's bowling struggles: They will need to improve their performance on day 2 if they are to get back into the contest.
With a strong first day behind them, India will be looking to continue their momentum and put Bangladesh under further pressure on day 2.
