Ravichandran Ashwin's outstanding performance on Day 4 raised hopes for a result in the second Test against Bangladesh at Green Park. Despite losing more than two days of play due to rain, India demonstrated intent and aggression, leading to an exciting day of cricket.
In a day marked by 85 overs, 437 runs were scored, and 18 wickets fell. After declaring at 285 for 9, India took a 52-run lead. Bangladesh's openers, Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam, aimed to navigate the final overs with minimal damage. However, India captain Rohit Sharma quickly brought Ashwin into the attack, and he delivered immediately, trapping Zakir in front of the stumps.
Bangladesh sent in nightwatchman Hasan Mahmud, who managed to score a boundary but soon fell victim to Ashwin's crafty bowling. The spinner continued to weave his magic, dismissing Hasan with a well-placed delivery that crashed into the stumps.
India's aggressive batting saw them lose wickets quickly as they pursued runs. Virat Kohli and KL Rahul provided stability with an 87-run partnership, with Kohli scoring 47 runs from 35 balls before falling to Shakib Al Hasan. Rahul played a crucial innings, scoring 68 before being dismissed while attempting to cut a delivery.
At tea, India was well-placed at 138 for 2, with Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant at the crease. Bangladesh struggled in their first innings, finishing at 233 runs, with Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Ravindra Jadeja picking up key wickets.
The Indian openers started their innings explosively, setting a record for the fastest 50 runs in Test cricket, reaching the milestone in just 3 overs. Yashasvi Jaiswal's blistering knock of 72 off 51 balls was a highlight, making him the fourth Indian to score the fastest fifty in Tests.
As Day 5 approaches, India looks to capitalize on their lead and push for a series victory.
Brief Scores:
- Bangladesh: 233 & 26/2 (Shadman Islam 7*, Ravichandran Ashwin 2/14)
- India: 285/9 declared (Yashasvi Jaiswal 72, KL Rahul 68; Mehidy Hasan Miraz 4/41)
