The first day of the second Test between India vs Bangladesh was pretty much ruined by rain. A the Kanpur circuit, where even the first day’s play got cut short with just 35 overs of play being possible as bad light and heavy rains brought the day’s play to an end, with Bangladesh having reached 107/3 while batting first. Mominul Haque remained unbeaten on 40*, while Mushfiqur Rahim was not out on 6* as the day’s play was called off owing to rain. It seemed a few key moments had appeared before the rain intervened into the game.
India’s Bowling Showed Dominance in the First Hour
Before the match was delayed for an hour, as the outfield had been wet, washed by overnight rain. It was anything but expected afterwards as the day became rain-interrupted. India, who won the toss, decided to field, retaining the same XI that had ensured victory at Chennai. Indian bowlers struck a similar chord straightaway too, and Akash Deep was impressive in his opening spell, with the strike from the right-arm seamer helping Bangladesh to reach lunch at 34/2.
An early breakthrough came his way when he sent Bangladesh opener Zakir Hasan back on a duck. Close on the heels of that came the wicket of Mahmudul Hasan Joy, leaving the opposition in a spot of trouble. However, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and seasoned campaigner Mominul Haque steadied the ship with a 51-run partnership. He displayed caution, which did Bangladesh some good to tide over early setbacks and lay the base.
Ashwin Breaks Key Partnership
Just when things were going well for Bangladesh, in this Shanto-Mominul partnership, a massive breakthrough came for India in the form of Ravichandran Ashwin in the second session. Ashwin got Shanto for 39, breaking this crucial partnership and putting Bangladesh under pressure once again. This was effective because of Ashwin, continuing his fine form. He managed to extract turn and bounce from the surface and broke the flow of Bangladesh’s recovery effort.
Rain Halted Play and Dominates the Day
The second session did not work as planned. Bad light caused play to stop, before heavy rain ensured there was very little cricket played in the day. At stumps, 9 overs had been bowled, and Bangladesh was 107/3 by the time stumps were drawn. Mominul Haque had batted solidly at 40*, while Mushfiqur Rahim had batted his way to cautionary 6*.
Preview of Day 2 – India vs Bangladesh
With more rain expected in the coming days, the question is how much play will be possible on Day 2. This test can go any way, and perhaps weather itself can be the decisive factor for the game. Both teams would look forward to seizing whatever opportunity came their way. Early wickets will be well-taken for India; Bangladesh will expect their middle order to regain a firmer shape.
