India secures a comprehensive 280-run win over Bangladesh in the first Test at Chepauk, thanks to a brilliant all-round display by Ravichandran Ashwin and key contributions from the batting lineup.
India kicked off their Test series against Bangladesh in style, securing a decisive 280-run victory at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chepauk. This victory was marked by a combination of stellar individual performances and solid teamwork, setting the tone for what could be a highly successful series.
A Shaky Start for India
Despite the final scoreline, India’s journey in the match wasn’t without challenges. After winning the toss, India found themselves in early trouble as their top order faltered in the first innings. Captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli failed to make significant contributions, leaving the team at a precarious 80/4. However, it was Ravichandran Ashwin, a local favorite, who came to the rescue. Promoted up the order, Ashwin played a crucial knock of 106 runs, showcasing his versatility and cricketing intelligence.
Ravindra Jadeja added to the recovery effort, scoring 86 runs, which helped India post a competitive total of 376. Bangladesh’s bowlers, led by Taskin Ahmed and Hasan Mahmud, bowled well in patches, but Ashwin’s composure proved too much for them to handle.
Bangladesh’s Struggles with the Bat
In reply, Bangladesh struggled to find their footing. Despite a decent start from their openers Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam, the team collapsed under the pressure of India’s bowling attack. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj extracted early movement, but it was Ashwin again who stole the show. While he went wicketless in the first innings, his persistent pressure kept the Bangladeshi batsmen on edge. Eventually, the visitors were bundled out for just 149, giving India a massive first-innings lead of 227 runs.
India’s Second Innings Onslaught
India’s second innings saw the top order come to life. Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant both smashed centuries, with Pant’s counterattacking hundred grabbing the spotlight. Gill’s steady approach complemented Pant’s aggressive stroke play, and the duo built a commanding lead. Rohit Sharma declared India’s innings at 287/4, setting Bangladesh a daunting target of 515.
Ashwin’s Masterclass Seals the Victory
Bangladesh’s second innings started on a more positive note, with Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam showing resilience. But as the pitch started to deteriorate, Ashwin took full advantage of the turn and bounce on offer. He decimated the Bangladeshi lineup, claiming six wickets and recording his 37th five-wicket haul in Test cricket. His performance with both the bat and ball earned him the well-deserved Player of the Match award.
Jadeja provided valuable support with tight spells of left-arm spin, and Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for 234, handing India a comprehensive 280-run win.
What Lies Ahead for Both Teams
India’s convincing win at Chepauk sets the tone for the remainder of the series. For Bangladesh, this heavy defeat will be a wake-up call as they head into the second Test in Kanpur. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto acknowledged the positives from the match, particularly the bowling performances of Taskin Ahmed and Hasan Mahmud, but emphasized the need for better batting resilience in the next match.
Rohit Sharma, on the other hand, praised his team’s performance, singling out Rishabh Pant for his remarkable comeback and Ashwin for his all-round brilliance. “Pant has gone through tough times, but the way he’s come back is superb. He loves Test cricket the most, and it’s great to see him enjoying his game again,” said Rohit after the match.
India will now look to carry this momentum forward as they prepare for the second Test, with their eyes firmly set on winning the series. With Ashwin in top form and the batting lineup looking strong, India seems well-positioned to dominate the rest of the tour.