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The much-anticipated Test series between India and Bangladesh began at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Thursday, September 19. The opening game of this two-match series holds significant interest as Bangladesh, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, seek their first-ever Test win over India. Bangladesh, in the game, won the toss and elected to bowl first under the overcast conditions.
Early setback for India as Rohit Sharma falls early
India’s Test campaign took an early hit in the sixth over when Bangladesh pacer Hasan Mahmud dismissed Indian captain Rohit Sharma for just 6 runs off 19 deliveries. Mahmud, with his youthful exuberance and precise bowling, bowled an exceptional delivery just outside off-stump. The ball moved away slightly, enough to induce a soft edge from Rohit, who was attempting a defensive shot. The ball flew straight into the safe hands of Bangladesh captain Shanto at second slip, marking a crucial breakthrough for the visitors. Rohit’s early dismissal left the Indian camp reeling as the experienced opener’s form has been under scrutiny, particularly against Bangladesh.
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Rohit Sharma’s struggles continue against Bangladesh
Rohit’s lean run against Bangladesh persisted as his average against them dropped further to a low 9.75. Despite his remarkable record against other teams, Bangladesh remains the only side in Test cricket against whom Rohit has yet to make a significant score. Before this Test, he had managed just 11 runs in three innings, and his latest score of 6 further solidified his struggle against the Tigers in red-ball cricket. In fact, Bangladesh are the only opposition against which Rohit has never crossed the 50-run mark in Tests. His scores of 6, 6, and 21 in previous encounters highlight a continuing challenge. This unwanted streak for Rohit was compounded on first day of the Chennai Test as he again fell short.
Bangladesh’s confidence boost early in the Test
For Bangladesh, Rohit’s wicket in the opening session was a morale booster. Mahmud’s delivery not only removed one of India’s most seasoned campaigners but also shifted the early momentum towards the visitors. After that Mahmud continued to show his dominance as he picked two more key wickets in the form of Shubman Gill and former Indian captain Virat Kohli. As the series progresses, Bangladesh will hope to build on this crucial early breakthrough and continue to challenge India in their home conditions.
