What began as a challenging morning for India transformed into an impressive comeback, largely due to the brilliance of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. Their unbeaten 195-run partnership lifted India from a precarious 144/6 to a solid 339/6, dramatically altering the match's trajectory and putting India in a much stronger position by day’s end.

The day started under overcast skies, creating conditions that heavily favored seam bowling. Bangladesh, recognizing the pitch's early assistance for bowlers, chose to field first after winning the toss. Their decision quickly proved wise, as Hasan Mahmud dismantled India’s top order.

In a devastating opening spell, Mahmud claimed the wickets of Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli in rapid succession, leaving India reeling at 39/3 within the first hour. Rohit and Kohli, two of India’s most reliable batsmen, could only muster six runs each, while Gill was dismissed for a duck. With Bangladesh’s bowlers in complete control, India urgently needed stability.

Young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant stepped up, providing the first signs of resistance for India. They forged a fifty-run partnership, displaying patience and effective shot selection against Bangladesh’s disciplined attack. Jaiswal, in particular, impressed with his composure, securing a hard-fought half-century.

However, just as India appeared to be gaining momentum, Hasan Mahmud struck again, dismissing Pant, followed by Jaiswal shortly thereafter, who fell victim to Nahid Rana. At 144/6, India found itself in a precarious position, and it looked like Bangladesh was poised to roll through the Indian lineup.

Ravi Ashwin and Ravi Jadeja Turn the Tide

But that’s when Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja rose to the occasion. Stepping in during a moment of crisis for India, the two all-rounders displayed exceptional determination and skill, forging a partnership that not only salvaged India’s innings but also established a commanding position by the end of the day.

Ashwin quickly found his rhythm, executing exquisite shots and taking the fight to Bangladesh’s bowlers. His batting was fluid from the outset, and he raced to his second Test century at his home ground in Chepauk, thrilling the Chennai crowd. Meanwhile, Jadeja maintained his aggressive approach, ensuring the scoreboard kept ticking at a rapid pace and preventing Bangladesh from applying any pressure on their partnership.

Virender Sehwag drops a tweet for Ravi Ashwin and Ravi Jadeja

“What a partnership between Ashwin and Jadeja. Ashwin getting his 6th test hundred is a very special achievement. @ashwinravi99 @imjadeja,” Sehwag tweeted.