Despite facing a significant setback from inclement weather, which led to nearly three full days of lost play, India displayed unwavering resolve, producing a riveting post-lunch session on the fourth day of the second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur. The actions on the field underscored the Indian team’s committed effort to secure a decisive outcome despite the formidable challenge posed by the rain delays.
The Indian bowlers, spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah (3-50), set the tone by restricting Bangladesh to a below-par total. The bowlers’ concerted effort culminated swiftly after lunch, with Bangladesh managing to add just 28 runs. Bumrah, showcasing his skill and precision, ripped through the tail-end batsmen. Mominul Haque stood as the lone warrior for Bangladesh, remaining unbeaten with a resolute 107*.
Jasprit Bumrah had appeared surprisingly lackluster on the first day, but he returned to form spectacularly. His dismissal of Mushfiqur Rahim in the morning session, thanks to a skillful nip-backer, was the catalyst for a fiery display against Bangladesh’s tail. Bumrah’s ruthless run continued as he dispatched Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam efficiently. Mohammed Siraj and Ravindra Jadeja’s contributions were equally pivotal. Siraj sent Hasan Mahmud back to the pavilion, while Jadeja, with an exceptional return catch to remove Khaled Ahmed, claimed his 300th Test wicket. This milestone places Jadeja in the elite group of players who have scored 3000 Test runs and taken 300 wickets.
While the Indian bowlers excelled, the most exhilarating aspect of the session was delivered by their openers, Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who set an electrifying pace right from the start. Their aggressive approach resembled a T20 strategy, with boundaries and sixes peppering the early overs. Jaiswal’s three consecutive boundaries followed by Rohit’s two sixes set a historic pace. By reaching 50 runs in merely three overs, India recorded the fastest fifty in Test cricket history.
. Despite Rohit’s departure, his contribution to the team’s aggressive strategy was invaluable.
The first 11 overs saw India reaching yet another milestone—the fastest team century ever recorded. Jaiswal’s rapid 50 off 31 balls marked the fastest half-century scored against Bangladesh and the third fastest by any Indian. His subsequent innings of 72 off 51 were crucial until he fell to an over-ambitious shot. Shubman Gill, looking equally impressive, remained not out on 37. India’s intentions were clear: maintain an ultra-aggressive stance to build a significant lead on the penultimate day. This strategy was further emphasized by promoting the explosive Rishabh Pant to number four in the batting order.
With a minimum of 40 overs remaining in the day, India stands poised to leverage their frenetic scoring rate to establish a strong lead. This approach aligns with their strategic intention to ensure a defensible position, especially given the limited time left in the match.
Brief scores: Bangladesh compiled a total of 233 runs, with Mominul Haque’s stellar unbeaten 107 being the highlight. Jasprit Bumrah led the bowling charge with figures of 3-50, supported by solid performances from Akash Deep (2-43). India, in their turn, raced to 138/2, trailing by 95 runs, with significant contributions from Yashasvi Jaiswal (72) and Shubman Gill (37*).
In conclusion, the day’s play in Kanpur is testament to India’s determination and aggressive play strategy despite the interruptions caused by adverse weather. The team exhibited impressive resolve and skill, setting up a compelling narrative as the match progresses into its final stages. With the chance to leverage their aggressive performance, India’s tactical maneuvers could pave the way for a memorable finish to an otherwise disrupted Test match.