Centuries from Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant propelled India towards a commanding victory in the first Test, despite Bangladesh's spirited start to their chase of 515 runs in Chennai on Saturday.
Bangladesh made a brisk start but lost wickets, reaching 158-4 when bad light halted play on day three, leaving the visitors still 357 runs short of victory. Earlier, India declared their second innings at 287-4, with Pant scoring 109 and Gill remaining unbeaten on 119. Their 167-run partnership for the fourth wicket solidified India's advantage after they had dismissed Bangladesh for 149 on day two.
Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto was unbeaten on 51 at the close of play, with Shakib Al Hasan on five. India's bowling was described as 'quality' by Bangladesh batting coach David Hemp, who acknowledged the challenge of facing a confident Indian side at home.
India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin contributed with both bat and ball, scoring 113 in the first innings and taking three wickets. Bangladesh openers Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam made a promising start with 62 runs before Jasprit Bumrah dismissed Zakir for 33. Ashwin then removed Shadman for 35 and bowled Mominul Haque for 13, before also dismissing Mushfiqur Rahim for 13.
Pant's aggressive batting saw him reach his sixth Test century, much to the delight of the weekend crowd. Gill also notched his fifth Test ton, with both players contributing significantly to India's strong position. India aims to extend their lead in the World Test Championship rankings with a series of 10 matches ahead, while Bangladesh seeks their first-ever Test victory against India.
