In a thrilling display of aggressive cricket, India set a blistering pace during the second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur, scoring an astounding 285 runs in just 34.4 overs, which translates to an impressive run rate of 8.22 runs per over. This remarkable feat broke several world records, showcasing India’s intent to secure a favorable result despite losing two full days to rain. On the evening of September 30, Bangladesh found themselves reeling at 26 for 2, still trailing India's total by 26 runs, as R Ashwin took charge with the new ball, leaving the visitors in a precarious position.
The match had been significantly affected by weather conditions, with persistent rain washing out the first three days and restricting play to a mere 35 overs before the resumption on Day 4. Bangladesh resumed their innings at 107 for 3, and for a moment, it appeared they might escape with a draw. However, India’s batters were determined to turn the tables.Â
With a sense of urgency, India adopted a strategy reminiscent of Twenty20 cricket, shattering multiple records for the fastest team milestones in Test cricket: the fastest 50 in 18 deliveries, 100 in 61, 150 in 110, and 200 in 146 balls. This aggressive approach marked a new era in Indian Test cricket, where individual milestones were cast aside in favor of team success. It reflected a significant shift under captain Rohit Sharma, reminiscent of their selfless play during the ODI World Cup in 2023.
As India began their innings, openers Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal made their intentions clear, launching into the Bangladeshi bowlers from the very first ball. Jaiswal set the tone by hitting Hasan Mahmud for three boundaries in the first over, while Rohit hit two massive sixes off Khaled Ahmed in his opening over, evoking memories of his explosive performances in limited-overs formats. Rohit's aggression was palpable, but his innings ended prematurely due to a misjudged LBW decision, which was overturned only for him to lose focus and fall to a sharply turning delivery from Mehidy Hasan Miraz.
Yashasvi Jaiswal, however, continued to excel, reaching his fifty in a mere 31 deliveries, becoming the third-fastest Indian to achieve this feat in Tests. He was well supported by Shubman Gill, who added 39 runs off 36 balls, helping India surpass the 100-run mark at an extraordinary pace. Despite losing three quick wickets and slipping from 127 for 1 to 159 for 4, the Indian batters maintained their aggressive approach. Virat Kohli, coming off a quiet first Test, displayed his attacking prowess, scoring 47 runs off 35 balls with a striking rate that mirrored his aggressive style during his time in the IPL.
KL Rahul also shone brightly, countering his critics with a blistering 68 off just 43 balls, featuring two sixes and seven boundaries. His performance garnered significant praise from the team management, led by Gautam Gambhir, highlighting the importance of his contribution in a crucial match.
As the day progressed and India’s innings came to a close, R Ashwin entered the fray with the ball, quickly shifting the momentum back in India's favor. His two quick wickets—Zakir Hasan and nightwatchman Hasan Mahmud—left Bangladesh reeling at 26 for 2 by the end of the day’s play.Â
India’s aggressive mindset not only rejuvenated their batting strategy but also set a formidable challenge for Bangladesh, as they aimed to complete a 2-0 whitewash in the series. The combination of record-breaking runs and Ashwin's magic with the ball suggests a promising path ahead for India, who are keen to clinch victory in this rain-affected Test match. Fans and analysts alike will be eagerly watching as the action unfolds on the final day.
Â
