India’s Test Dominance Hinges on Ashwin and Jadeja, Says Kamran Akmal
Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal has highlighted the pivotal roles played by Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in India’s Test team, particularly on home soil. His comments come after India’s emphatic 280-run victory over Bangladesh in the first Test in Chennai.
Akmal emphasized the duo’s match-winning partnership in the first innings, which turned the tide in India’s favor. After the hosts found themselves struggling at 144/6, Ashwin and Jadeja combined for a crucial 199-run stand. Ashwin scored a brilliant 109, while Jadeja contributed with a valuable 86.
“What an all-round performance from Ashwin,” Akmal said on his YouTube channel. “He took six wickets in the second innings and scored a century. It was a match-winning partnership from Jaddu. Without these two players, India can’t form a Test playing XI at home. They are big performers.”
Ashwin’s brilliance extended to the bowling department, where he claimed six wickets in Bangladesh’s second innings. Jadeja provided excellent support, finishing with combined figures of 5/77 across both innings.
Akmal also praised Shubman Gill’s return to form, noting his unbeaten 119 in the second innings. “Shubman Gill showed his form. He is a remarkable player, and it is important for him to score runs,” Akmal said.
Another highlight of the match was Rishabh Pant’s comeback to Test cricket. After recovering from a serious car accident in December 2022, Pant scored a gritty 109 in the second innings. Akmal commended Pant’s resilience and the efforts of the medical team that facilitated his return.
“It was an incredible performance from Pant,” Akmal said. “I salute the medical panel and the trainer who brought him back to the field.”
India’s victory in Chennai has further solidified their dominance in Test cricket at home. With Ashwin and Jadeja leading the charge, the team looks well-equipped to continue their success in the upcoming matches against Bangladesh.
