Chennai: Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, affectionately dubbed the ‘Ravi’ duo, showcased their resilience by lifting India from a perilous position on day one of the first Test against Bangladesh.
The pair’s remarkable unbeaten partnership of 195 runs guided India to a formidable 339 for six after an early collapse triggered by Bangladesh’s Hasan Mahmud.
Mahmud’s brilliant 4 for 58 had India reeling at 144 for six, despite a promising 56 from Yashasvi Jaiswal. The young pacer, making waves in only his fourth Test match, sent shockwaves through the Indian top order by removing Rohit Sharma (6), Shubman Gill (0), and Virat Kohli (6) in a devastating opening spell. Rishabh Pant’s brisk 39 also fell victim to Mahmud, leaving India in deep trouble.
But then came the seasoned ‘Ravi’ pair—Ashwin (102*) and Jadeja (86*)—who combined to turn the tide. Ashwinunleashed a flurry of boundaries, including a ramp shot off Mahmud and a powerful slog sweep for six off Shakib Al-Hasan. His century, his second at Chepauk, came at a crucial moment, calming the nerves of Indian fans.
Jadeja played the perfect foil to Ashwin, focusing on keeping his wicket intact and rotating the strike. Though less aggressive, he still managed to hit some stunning shots, including a six off Mahmud and three boundaries off Shakib. His half-century off 73 balls further solidified India’s position, allowing Ashwin to play with freedom.
Bangladesh had earlier made the brave choice to bowl first, and for a time, it seemed like the decision would pay off.
Rohit, who was saved by DRS when he was on 1, was the first to depart.
The Indian skipper had little choice other than playing a wobble seam delivery that came at him on a tight angle as he edged to Shanto at second slip.
Gill lasted just eight balls but he would count himself unlucky, feathering Mahumd’s down-the-leg side delivery to stumper Litton Das.
Kohli walked into the Chepauk amid loud cheers and looked confident. But an old failing resurfaced to haunt him.
Mahmud pitched one just short of the length outside the off-stump, and the length was not suitable for a drive.
But the star batter chose to play an expansive one with the ball nestling in Litton’s gloves after taking a healthy edge off his bat.
Jaiswal and Pant added 62 runs for the fourth wicket to temporarily check the free fall before both perished in close succession in the middle session.
With KL Rahul (16) falling to off-spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Bangladesh appeared in control.
However, The ‘Ravi’ partnership not only steered India out of trouble but also put them firmly back on top by the end of the day’s play.
PNN & Agencies