India vs Bangladesh 1st Test, Day 1 Highlights: Ashwin-Jadeja Partnership Powers India to 339/6 at Stumps

India marked their return to Test cricket with a strong finish on Day 1 against Bangladesh in the first Test of the series. After a shaky start, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja's unbroken 195-run partnership turned things around, leaving India at 339/6 at the close of play.

A Tale of Two Halves for India

India struggled early on, slipping to 144/6 after a disciplined Bangladesh bowling attack took advantage of overcast conditions at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium. Hasan Mahmud led the charge for the visitors, claiming wickets of key batters including Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli. However, Ashwin and Jadeja steadied the ship, taking India from 144/6 to 339/6 by the end of Day 1.

Ashwin celebrated his sixth Test century off just 108 balls, while Jadeja remained unbeaten on 86, edging closer to his ton. Their partnership is now the highest seventh-wicket stand for India against Bangladesh in Test cricket.

Key Moments from Day 1:

• Ashwin's Century: Ashwin reached his fastest Test century and celebrated his birthday in style.

• Jadeja’s Solid Knock: Jadeja's composed innings of 86 off 117 balls complemented Ashwin’s aggressive play.
• Bangladesh's Early Dominance: Hasan Mahmud's early breakthroughs had India reeling before Ashwin and Jadeja's stand.
• Jaiswal’s Half-Century: Yashasvi Jaiswal stood firm with a 56-run knock, but his dismissal added to India’s struggles early on.
• Pant’s Impact: Rishabh Pant and Jaiswal provided a 50-run partnership, steadying India after a quick collapse but were unable to build further.

What Lies Ahead

With India at 339/6 at stumps, they are in a strong position to post a commanding total. Bangladesh will need early wickets on Day 2 to avoid further damage and try to limit India's lead. The contest promises to intensify as spinners could become more influential as the game progresses.

Stay tuned for more updates as India and Bangladesh continue their battle in the opening Test.