Thu Sep 19 17:09:01 UTC 2024: ## Ashwin’s Century Lifts India to Dominance on Day One Against Bangladesh
**CHITTAGONG, BANGLADESH:** Ravichandran Ashwin’s sixth Test century, achieved after three years, lifted India from a precarious position to a dominant score of 339/6 on the first day of the first Test against Bangladesh.
Ashwin’s hundred, which came at the same venue where he scored his last Test century against England in 2021, was a crucial factor in India’s recovery after Bangladesh’s bowlers, especially Hasan Mahmud, had them reeling at 144/6.
With his century, Ashwin equalled MS Dhoni’s record of six Test hundreds, achieving the feat in two fewer innings than the former captain. He now holds the record for the most Test centuries for a number eight batsman after Daniel Vettori’s five.
Ashwin’s performance was even more impressive given his all-round contributions. He also recorded his 36th five-wicket haul in Tests, equalling Sir Richard Hadlee’s record, while also reaching 20 fifties or more in the format.
The century was built on a crucial 195-run unbeaten partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, who remained not out on 100. This partnership is the highest for the seventh wicket or lower on day one of a Test match and could become India’s eighth 200-run stand for the seventh wicket or lower in Tests if the duo add five more runs on day two.
Despite the initial struggle against a lively Bangladesh attack, Ashwin expressed his liking for the pitch, stating that it was better to go for big shots on such a surface. He acknowledged Jadeja’s crucial role in their partnership, saying that his teammate’s positive approach helped him navigate a tiring phase.
The first day’s play ended with India in a commanding position, with Ashwin’s century and the unbroken partnership with Jadeja providing a strong foundation for a series win.
First Piper 