On Day 1 of the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Hasan Mahmud set the tone early for Bangladesh with a masterful display of fast bowling as he delivered a sensational opening spell that rattled India‘s top order.
After removing captain Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, Mahmud claimed the prized wicket of Virat Kohli, completing a dominant first session for Bangladesh. His consistency in length and ability to move the ball off the surface made life difficult for India’s experienced batting line-up. The early blows stunned the hosts, placing Bangladesh in control of the morning’s proceedings.
Virat Kohli falls to old habit of chasing outside off-stump
Coming in with India reeling at 34/2, Virat Kohli had the weight of the team on his shoulders. With a reputation for being India’s crisis man, expectations were high that Kohli would steady the innings. However, Mahmud had other plans. On the third ball of the 10th over, Mahmud bowled a teasing delivery just outside off-stump. The ball angled away slightly after pitching, drawing Kohli into a drive.
The former Indian captain, a player known for his impeccable off-side play, shuffled across and went for an expansive drive well away from his body. It was a familiar scenario for Kohli, who, in recent times, has been susceptible to deliveries that offer a hint of movement outside off-stump. His attempt lacked the precision and control required, resulting in a thick edge.
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Litton Das makes no mistake as Kohli walks back frustrated
The thick outside edge from Kohli’s bat flew towards wicketkeeper Litton Das, who completed the catch comfortably. Kohli, aware of the technical flaw that led to his dismissal, was visibly frustrated as he walked off the field. For Kohli, the dismissal was yet another reminder of his vulnerability against deliveries in the corridor of uncertainty.
It marked a significant moment in the match, as India’s premier batsman fell cheaply for just 6 runs off 14 balls, further denting India’s hopes in the session. Mahmud, who had already sent back India’s top two batters, celebrated Kohli’s dismissal with elation, knowing the impact of removing one of the world’s best batsmen early. Kohli’s wicket was a testament to Mahmud’s discipline and ability to exploit conditions.
Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant holds firm amidst early collapse
As Kohli made his way back to the pavilion, India found themselves in a difficult position, having lost three early wickets. The top order had collapsed, leaving the team vulnerable, but Yashasvi Jaiswal, fresh off a stellar series against England, rose to the occasion. The young left-hander displayed remarkable composure, batting with caution and defying the relentless Bangladesh bowlers.
At the other end, Rishabh Pant, returning to Test cricket after nearly two years, provided the perfect foil with his aggressive intent. Unfazed by the pressure, Pant launched a counterattack, taking the fight back to the Bangladesh bowlers. Together, Jaiswal and Pant built a solid partnership, adding 54 crucial runs for the fourth wicket. By lunch, the duo had guided India to a safer position at 88/3, stemming the early damage.
