India vs Bangladesh 1st Test: Day 1 Highlights - A Dominant Start for the Hosts
The first day of the much-anticipated India vs. Bangladesh 1st Test at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram saw India assert their dominance, setting the stage for a potential one-sided affair. Here are the key highlights from a day of Indian dominance:
A Solid Start from the Indian Openers
The Indian innings began on a positive note with KL Rahul and Shubman Gill putting on a 50-run partnership for the first wicket. Rahul, who returned to the Test team after recovering from injury, looked in good touch, playing with a calm and calculated approach. He reached his 50 off just 74 balls, showcasing his experience and temperament.
Shubman Gill's Century Sets the Tone
While Rahul was dismissed for a well-compiled 50, Shubman Gill continued his impressive form, going on to register his second Test century. Gill displayed his elegant stroke-play, accumulating runs freely against the Bangladesh bowlers. He eventually fell for 110, becoming the third Indian to score a century in Bangladesh.
A Strong Indian Batting Display
The Indian middle-order also contributed significantly, with Virat Kohli scoring a fluent half-century (52 off 82 balls) and Cheteshwar Pujara playing a gritty innings of 43 runs. The visitors ended the day on a strong 258/2, having built a solid foundation for a big first innings total.
Bangladesh Bowlers Struggle to Contain the Indian Batters
Bangladesh's bowling attack, despite their best efforts, failed to contain the Indian batters. The absence of experienced pacer Taskin Ahmed due to injury proved to be a significant setback for the hosts. The Bangladesh bowlers struggled to find consistency and accuracy, allowing the Indian batsmen to dominate.
Day 1 in Numbers:
- India: 258/2 (Gill 110, Kohli 52, Rahul 50)
- Bangladesh: Did not bat.
What to Expect on Day 2:
With a strong first-innings lead in hand, India will be looking to build on their momentum and declare their innings early on Day 2. It will be interesting to see how the Bangladesh bowling attack responds to the challenge. The hosts will need to find a way to dismiss the Indian batters quickly to avoid falling too far behind.
The second day of the Test promises to be an exciting one, as both teams will be looking to gain an edge in the series. Stay tuned for more updates!