Thu Sep 19 15:09:36 UTC 2024: ## Ashwin’s Century Rescues India on Day 1 of 1st Test Against Bangladesh
**Chennai, India:** A stunning century from veteran off-spinner R Ashwin on Thursday propelled India to a respectable 339/6 on the opening day of the first Test against Bangladesh at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
After a shaky start that saw India slump to 144/6, Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja orchestrated a brilliant 195-run partnership for the seventh wicket, effectively steering the hosts back into the contest. Ashwin’s knock, his sixth Test ton and second at Chepauk, was particularly crucial, as he kept Bangladesh on the back foot with aggressive strokeplay.
Earlier, Bangladesh captain Najmul Shanto had won the toss and elected to field on a gloomy morning. Their pace attack, led by Hasan Mahmud, made early inroads, with Mahmud claiming four wickets. However, the remaining bowlers lacked consistency, allowing India to rebuild their innings.
Bangladesh’s over-rate also came under scrutiny, as they failed to bowl the required number of overs, potentially affecting their World Test Championship points.
Despite the excellent bowling display from Bangladesh in the first two sessions, India dominated the final session thanks to Ashwin and Jadeja’s partnership.
With the sun shining brightly in the afternoon, the pitch is expected to become more batting-friendly in the coming days.
If India can extend their lead in the second innings, they will put themselves in a strong position to win the first Test. However, Bangladesh, who have been in excellent form recently, will be keen to make a comeback and level the series.
First Piper 