India and Bangladesh faced off on the opening day of the second Test, with rain playing a key role in limiting the action. After winning the toss, Indian captain Rohit Sharma opted to bowl under overcast conditions, anticipating movement from the pacers. The decision to field first raised some eyebrows, but the conditions supported Rohit’s choice.
Early Strikes by Indian Pacers
India started off well, with debutant Akash Deep impressing with his line and length. He struck early, removing Zakir Hasan for a 24-ball duck, caught by Yashasvi Jaiswal in the slips. Soon after, Shadman Islam was trapped lbw by Akash Deep, who made the most of the lateral movement on offer. A successful review by India overturned the initial not-out decision, leaving Bangladesh at 36/2.
Shanto and Mominul Offer Resistance
The partnership between Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mominul Haque steadied the innings after the early blows. Shanto looked in good touch, driving and pulling with authority. Mominul, known for his solid technique, played the anchor role, focusing on survival as the Indian seamers kept probing around off-stump. The duo added 44 runs for the third wicket, battling through a challenging session before lunch.
However, just after lunch, Ravichandran Ashwin, who had been relatively quiet, came back for a fresh spell. In his third over after the break, he outsmarted Shanto with a beautifully flighted delivery that drifted in and trapped him plumb in front of the stumps. Shanto departed for a well-compiled 31 off 57 balls, leaving Bangladesh at 80/3.
Mominul and Mushfiqur at the Crease
Following Shanto’s dismissal, Bangladesh’s veteran batter Mushfiqur Rahim joined Mominul at the crease. The two added 27 runs before bad light and then rain interrupted play. Mominul remained not out on 40 from 81 deliveries, showcasing his resilience on a pitch that offered movement to both pacers and spinners. Mushfiqur was unbeaten on 6 from 13 balls when the umpires called for a stoppage.
Rain Halts Play
Despite promising momentum in India’s bowling, rain became the main feature of the afternoon session. Play was initially stopped due to bad light, and soon after, the heavens opened up over Green Park in Kanpur. The ground staff rushed to cover the field, but persistent showers prevented any further play. The umpires eventually called off the day’s proceedings with Bangladesh at 107/3 after 35 overs.
Summary of the Day
While India started the day on a high with quick wickets, Bangladesh managed to fight back through Shanto and Mominul. The standout performer with the ball was Akash Deep, who bagged two wickets on his Test debut, while Ashwin added one to his tally. With more rain forecasted for the next two days, it remains to be seen how much impact the weather will have on the outcome of this match.
Bangladesh will look to capitalize on Mominul and Mushfiqur’s experience to post a competitive total on Day 2, provided the weather permits any substantial play. India, on the other hand, will hope to pick up quick wickets and make the most of the overcast conditions.
Key Stats:
- Bangladesh finished at 107/3 after 35 overs, with Mominul Haque unbeaten on 40 and Mushfiqur Rahim on 6.
- Akash Deep was India’s standout bowler with figures of 10-4-34-2, while Ravichandran Ashwin took 1/22 in his 9 overs.
- Rain is expected to continue over the next few days, which could heavily influence the Test match’s outcome.
This Test match is crucial for both teams as Bangladesh looks to improve its standing in the World Test Championship, while India aims to assert dominance on home soil. Day 2 promises to be an exciting affair if the rain stays away.