Bangladesh found themselves in a precarious position, ending the day at 158-4 in their second innings, on Day 3 of the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday. Chasing an imposing target of 515 set by India, the visitors struggled to maintain momentum, with bad light eventually halting play early.
Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto has been the standout performer for Bangladesh, remaining unbeaten on 51 from 60 deliveries. His resilience will be crucial as he resumes the fourth day's play alongside Shakib Al Hasan, who is not out on five. The Indian bowling attack, spearheaded by Ravichandran Ashwin, proved to be formidable. Ashwin claimed three crucial wickets, while Jasprit Bumrah added another to his tally, further tightening India's grip on the match.
Earlier in the day, India resumed their innings at 81-3 and declared at 287-4, thanks to stellar centuries from Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill. Pant's aggressive knock of 109 off 128 balls and Gill's composed 119 off 176 balls significantly bolstered India's lead, setting a daunting target for Bangladesh. Mehedi Hasan Miraz managed to dismiss Pant, finishing with two wickets in the innings, but the damage had already been done.
Bangladesh's response began promisingly with openers Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam putting together a 62-run partnership. However, both batsmen were unable to convert their starts into substantial scores, with Zakir departing for 33 and Shadman for 35. Mominul Haque was bowled by Ashwin for 13, and Mushfiqur Rahim was brilliantly caught by KL Rahul at mid-on, also off Ashwin's bowling.
Shanto's resilience has been a highlight for Bangladesh, as he took on the Indian spinners and registered the first half-century for his team in this Test. Despite his efforts, Bangladesh faces a daunting task ahead. With only six wickets remaining and a massive 357 runs still required, the prospect of an Indian victory looms large as the match progresses into the final two days.
The Indian bowlers, particularly Ashwin, have been relentless, exploiting the conditions to their advantage and keeping the Bangladeshi batsmen under constant pressure. Bumrah's pace and precision added to Bangladesh's woes, making it difficult for them to build any significant partnerships.
As the match heads into its final stages, Bangladesh will need a monumental effort to avoid defeat. Shanto and Shakib will have to lead the charge, but the task ahead is formidable. The Indian team, buoyed by their strong performance, will be looking to wrap up the match swiftly and secure a comprehensive victory.
In summary, Day 3 of the first Test in Chennai has left Bangladesh with a mountain to climb. India's dominant display with both bat and ball has put them in a commanding position, and only a miraculous effort from the Bangladeshi batsmen can alter the course of the match. The final two days promise to be a stern test of Bangladesh's resolve and resilience.
