Senior off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin orchestrated a dominant performance for India, leading them to a resounding 280-run victory over Bangladesh in the opening Test at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai. The victory gives India a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.
Bangladesh, set an improbable target of 515, were bowled out for 234 in their second innings, with Ashwin wreaking havoc with a six-wicket haul. The off-spinner, who has a special affinity for the Chepauk pitch, finished with figures of 6/88, showcasing his mastery of spin bowling.
Ravindra Jadeja provided valuable support, claiming 3/58, while skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto top-scored for Bangladesh with a valiant 82 off 127 deliveries. However, the visitors’ batting lineup crumbled under the relentless pressure applied by the Indian bowlers.
India’s victory was set up by a commanding batting performance in their second innings. Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill both notched up centuries, scoring 109 and 119 not out respectively. Their twin tons helped India declare their innings at 287/4, setting Bangladesh an insurmountable target.
The victory marks a significant milestone for Ashwin, who has now become the second-highest wicket-taker for India in Test cricket, surpassing Kapil Dev’s tally of 434 wickets. Ashwin’s exceptional performance has cemented his status as one of the greatest spinners of all time.
India will now look to seal the series in the second and final Test, which will be played in Dhaka from December 14-18. Bangladesh, on the other hand, will need to regroup and find a way to counter India’s formidable bowling attack.
