What started as a tough morning for India turned into a remarkable recovery, thanks to the brilliance of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. From 144/6 to 339/6, the spin duo’s unbeaten 195-run partnership completely changed the course of the match, putting India in a much stronger position by the end of the day.
The day began with overcast skies and conditions that heavily favored seam bowling. Bangladesh, aware of the pitch’s early help for bowlers, opted to bowl first after winning the toss. Their decision proved to be spot on, as Hasan Mahmud wreaked havoc on India’s top order.
In a devastating opening spell, Mahmud removed Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli in quick succession, leaving India reeling at 39/3 inside the first hour of play. Rohit and Kohli, two of India’s most dependable batters, managed just six runs each, while Gill fell for a duck. Bangladesh’s bowlers were on top, and India desperately needed some stability.
Young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant came together and provided the first signs of resistance for India. The pair put together a fifty-run stand, showing patience and good shot selection against Bangladesh’s disciplined attack. Jaiswal in particular impressed with his composure, notching up a hard-fought half-century.
However, just when it seemed like India was finding its footing, Hasan Mahmud returned to break the partnership. Pant was dismissed, followed by Jaiswal shortly after, worked over by Nahid Rana. India, at 144/6, found themselves in a precarious situation, and it seemed like Bangladesh was on the verge of running through the Indian lineup.
Ravi Ashwin and Ravi Jadeja Turn the Tide
But that’s when Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja stepped up to the occasion. Coming together when India was in deep trouble, the two all-rounders showed great determination and class, building a partnership that would not only save India but also put them in a commanding position by the end of the day.
Ashwin was quick to get into his rhythm, playing some exquisite shots and taking the attack to Bangladesh’s bowlers. His batting looked fluent from the get-go, and he raced to his second Test hundred at his home ground in Chepauk, much to the delight of the Chennai crowd. Jadeja, playing his usual aggressive style, kept the scoreboard ticking at a brisk rate, ensuring that Bangladesh never got a chance to put pressure on the partnership.
Virender Sehwag drops a tweet for Ravi Ashwin and Ravi Jadeja
“What a partnership between Ashwin and Jadeja. Ashwin getting his 6th test hundred is a very special achievement. @ashwinravi99 @imjadeja,” Sehwag tweeted.