Virat Kohli and Mushfiqur Rahim’s on-field rivalry has been a topic of discussion for years, and it resurfaced during the first Test between India and Bangladesh in Chennai. Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal hinted at Kohli’s history of sledging Rahim, prompting a cheeky response from ex-India coach Ravi Shastri.
Rahim has previously stated that Kohli often engages in verbal exchanges with him on the field. “He always tries to sledge me every time I go in to bat,” Rahim said. “He’s a really competitive guy and doesn’t want to lose any cricket match.”
Kohli’s competitive nature was evident in India’s dominant performance on Day 2 of the Test. After dismissing Bangladesh for 149, India extended their lead to 308. However, Kohli’s innings was cut short when he was trapped lbw by Mehidy Hasan Miraz for 17.
Despite Kohli’s dismissal, India remained in control of the match. Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant were unbeaten on 33 and 12, respectively, at stumps.
Bangladesh’s top scorer was Shakib Al Hasan with 32, while Jasprit Bumrah was the pick of India’s bowlers with 4/55.
The hosts opted not to enforce the follow-on, giving Bangladesh a chance to bat again. However, India’s bowlers will be confident of wrapping up the match quickly and securing a series victory.