Thu Sep 19 12:29:28 UTC 2024: ## Ashwin Stars as India Fight Back Against Bangladesh in First Test
**Chennai, India:** Ravichandran Ashwin etched his name into the record books on Day 1 of the first Test between India and Bangladesh, smashing his sixth Test century and joining an elite group of players with most centuries from No. 8 or below.
The veteran off-spinner, batting at No. 7, anchored a stunning comeback for India, who recovered from a precarious 144/6 to finish the day at a respectable 339/6. Ashwin’s unbeaten 100* off 112 balls, including six fours and a six, was the highlight of the day, guiding India out of a difficult situation in partnership with Ravindra Jadeja (50* off 67 balls).
The duo’s 195-run unbeaten stand for the seventh wicket was crucial in turning the tide of the match, showcasing their resilience and experience against a determined Bangladesh bowling attack. Jadeja, who himself reached his half-century, played a supportive role, rotating the strike and providing valuable assistance to Ashwin.
Earlier in the day, India had lost their top order quickly, with Rishabh Pant (39) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (56) falling after promising starts. The partnership between Ashwin and Jadeja proved to be a turning point, adding much needed stability and runs to the Indian innings.
“It’s always special to play here,” Ashwin said after the day’s play. “Last time I got a hundred here, you [Ravi Shastri] were the coach. Thanks for that. Coming off a T20 tournament, I’ve always been giving the ball a waft, but on a surface like this, it’s better to go hard like Rishabh does. It’s an old-school Chennai surface with bounce and carry. When there is width, you can give it a tonk.”
With the ball expected to move a bit more on Day 2, India will be looking to build on their strong finish and take a commanding lead in the first Test.
First Piper 