Sun Sep 22 09:50:53 UTC 2024: ## Ashwin’s Century and Six-Wicket Haul Power India to Dominant Victory Over Bangladesh in Chennai

Chennai, India – Ravichandran Ashwin delivered a match-winning performance in his home ground, guiding India to a comfortable 280-run victory over Bangladesh in the opening Test match of the series. The all-rounder achieved a remarkable double of a century and a six-wicket haul, solidifying his status as a key player for India.

Ashwin’s century in the first innings proved pivotal, helping India take control of the match. Reflecting on his performance, he humbly stated, “I can’t really comment on what sort of impact I have had on this Test match.” However, his journey as a Test cricketer, stepping into the shoes of legendary spinner Harbhajan Singh in 2011, was a testament to his dedication and growth.

Despite his initial success in limited overs cricket, Ashwin faced doubts about his red-ball capabilities. “Constantly people have doubted if I could deliver in red-ball as I came from IPL,” he revealed. “Lots of people have come and helped me.”

The match marked the second time Ashwin achieved the century-and-five-wicket double at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. His bowling performance tied him with Shane Warne for the second-most five-wicket hauls in Test history with 37.

“Once upon a time this ground was concrete blocks and my first experience was watching from the Mac B stand, watching Sachin Tendulkar. One day I wanted to be on this particular ground and play,” shared Ashwin, highlighting the significance of his achievement in his hometown.

Ashwin also discussed his approach as a batsman and bowler, revealing his preference for achieving five wickets rather than a century. “I don’t want to go thinking I want to get a 100,” he explained. “I want to get a fifer though. You have to sequence it as a bowler whereas as a batter it’s about trusting your game, but compartmentalising it has made it easier.”

With a well-deserved man of the match performance, Ashwin enters the second Test in Kanpur as a player in form. Bangladesh will look to bounce back and level the series, but they face a formidable challenge against a confident India side.

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