India’s Ravichandran Ashwin scored his sixth Test century and formed an unbroken 195-run partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, helping India reach a strong position of 334 for six at stumps on Day 1 of the first Test against Bangladesh at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
Ashwin Secures Sixth Test Century
Ravichandran Ashwin played a crucial innings, marking his sixth Test century to pull India from a difficult spot. Alongside Ravindra Jadeja, who remained unbeaten on 83, Ashwin contributed to a vital 190-run stand, steering India to 334 for six after 78 overs. The partnership came after India had struggled at 144 for six.
Bangladesh Takes Control in Chennai Test
Bangladesh seized control as India lost six wickets for just 176 runs by tea on Day 1. Hasan Mahmud was instrumental, claiming four early wickets. Following his lead, Nahid Rana and Mehedi Hasan Miraz took additional wickets in the second session, allowing Bangladesh to restrict India to 88 runs for three wickets in 25 overs after lunch.
Nahid dismissed Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored a solid 56 off 118 balls, just as Miraz sent KL Rahul back to the pavilion for 16. Hasan’s early strikes included key wickets of Rohit Sharma (6), Shubman Gill (0), and Virat Kohli (6), while he later had Rishabh Pant caught for 39.
### Hasan Halts Pant and Jaiswal’s Resurgence
Bangladesh’s Hasan Mahmud continued his fine form by removing Rishabh Pant for 39, breaking a promising 62-run partnership with Jaisvi Jaiswal. The duo had helped India reach 88 for three at lunch, but Hasan’s dismissal of Pant shifted the momentum back to Bangladesh.
Pant and Jaiswal Steady the Ship
After a shaky start with three quick wickets from Hasan, India stabilized with a 54-run partnership between Jaiswal and Pant. By lunch, Jaiswal was unbeaten on 37, and Pant was not out on 33. Both batters managed to find their rhythm against a relentless Bangladesh pace attack, though they faced a tough challenge from Hasan, who was in top form.
Hasan’s Early Breakthroughs
Hasan Mahmud made a significant impact early on, taking the crucial wickets of Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli, leaving India in a precarious position at 34 for three. His wickets came in successive overs, as he exploited the conditions effectively, leading to a difficult start for the Indian batting lineup.
With the day’s play ending, India will be looking to build on the solid foundation laid by Ashwin and Jadeja when play resumes.