Bangladesh Bowlers Struggle, India Pile on 339/6 at Stumps
Dhaka, Bangladesh - The Bangladesh bowling attack was put to the sword on Day 1 of the first Test against India, with the visitors racking up an imposing 339/6 at stumps. Rohit Sharma (120) and Virat Kohli (112) both notched up centuries, while Shreyas Iyer also made a significant contribution with a quick-fire 57.
The Bangladesh bowlers were simply unable to contain the Indian batsmen, who played with aggression and confidence throughout the day. The hosts were particularly poor in the field, dropping several catches that allowed the Indian batsmen to build substantial partnerships.
Rohit and Kohli dominate
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were the architects of India's dominance. The duo added 222 runs for the third wicket, batting with a ruthless intensity that left the Bangladesh bowlers frustrated. Rohit was especially aggressive, smashing 17 fours and a six in his century, while Kohli was more patient, reaching his ton with 13 fours.
Iyer's late onslaught
Shreyas Iyer's late innings assault added further misery to the Bangladeshi bowlers. He came in at number six and launched a ferocious assault on the bowling, scoring his fifty off just 32 balls. He struck five sixes and two fours in a whirlwind knock that ensured India finished the day with a strong position.
Bangladesh's bowling woes
The Bangladesh bowling attack was a far cry from the unit that bowled out India for 113 in the last Test match in Dhaka. The lack of penetration and control from the pace bowlers, particularly Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam, allowed the Indian batsmen to play with freedom. The spinners, Taijul Islam and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, failed to deliver the breakthroughs that the team needed.
Bangladesh need a fightback
Bangladesh need to regroup quickly and produce a much-improved performance on Day 2. Their bowlers need to find a way to restrict India's scoring rate and get some early wickets. The batsmen will also need to show more resilience and grit against the Indian bowlers.
It remains to be seen whether Bangladesh can pull themselves back into the game, but they will need a monumental effort to overcome this deficit and secure a victory.
