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The first Test match between India and Bangladesh at the MA Chidambaram Stadium witnessed a dominant performance from the Indian team, securing a substantial lead of 432 runs by lunch on day three. This commanding position was achieved thanks to an unbeaten century partnership between Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant, showcasing their exceptional batting prowess.
India's dominance was evident from the outset. They dismissed Bangladesh for a paltry 149 runs in the first innings, securing a crucial first-innings lead of 227 runs. This set the stage for a strong performance in their second innings, which they delivered with aplomb.
Despite a shaky start to the second innings, Gill and Pant countered the Bangladesh bowlers with impressive aggression and resilience. Gill, known for his elegant strokeplay, smashed two sixes off Mehidy Hasan Miraz to reach his half-century, while Pant, making his return to Test cricket after a serious car accident, displayed his characteristic attacking style. His aggressive shot-making enthralled the crowd and brought India closer to a commanding victory.
Bangladesh missed a golden opportunity to break the partnership when skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto dropped Pant on 72. The left-hander capitalized on this missed chance, hitting Shakib Al Hasan for back-to-back boundaries, showcasing his ability to capitalize on any opportunity.
Gill and Pant's contrasting styles of play complemented each other perfectly. Gill's efficient batting, marked by minimal flourish but high productivity, combined with Pant's explosive shot-making, provided a potent combination that Bangladesh struggled to contain. The duo's 138-run stand for the fourth wicket demonstrated their excellent understanding of the game and their unwavering focus on achieving victory.
This impressive performance by India puts them in a strong position to win the first Test and take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. The bowlers have been equally impressive, creating consistent pressure on the Bangladesh batsmen, while the batters have shown remarkable resilience and attacking intent. With such a strong performance, India are well on their way to a successful Test series against Bangladesh.