India vs Bangladesh 2nd Test, Day 1: Rain Disrupts Play as Bangladesh Struggles to 107/3 at Stumps

The second Test match between India and Bangladesh faced an early halt on Day 1, as persistent rain in Kolkata affected the proceedings. Bangladesh ended the day at 107/3 after 39.2 overs, with play being called off due to bad weather. The match was briefly played, with only nine overs bowled after lunch before heavy rains and bad light forced the players off the field.

Bangladesh's Early Struggles

Bangladesh's start to the second Test wasn’t ideal. They found themselves in a tough position, having lost two wickets in the morning session and their captain Najmul Hossain Shanto in the afternoon. Indian pacer Akash Deep played a crucial role, removing both Bangladeshi openers early on. Zakir Hasan, who had shown promise in previous matches, was dismissed for a duck in Akash Deep's very first over. It was a brilliant diving catch by Yashasvi Jaiswal that sent Hasan back to the pavilion.

Following this early setback, Shadman Islam tried to steady the ship with a cautious 24 but was trapped leg before wicket (LBW) by Akash Deep. At 74/2, Bangladesh went into the lunch break under pressure from the Indian bowlers.

Post-Lunch Session & the Weather's Impact

After lunch, Bangladesh resumed with Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mominul Haque at the crease. Unfortunately for Bangladesh, their captain Najmul couldn't last long and was dismissed for 31, leaving the team at 107/3 before rain interrupted the game. India’s bowlers continued to maintain pressure, with Akash Deep being the standout performer, and Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj also bowling tight spells.

By the time rain and bad light stopped play, Mushfiqur Rahim (6*) and Mominul Haque (40*) were at the crease, trying to build a partnership. However, their efforts were interrupted as heavy showers caused an early end to the day's play. The officials finally called off the play as conditions didn’t improve.

Akash Deep Shines on Debut

Akash Deep, playing in just his second Test, made a significant impact on Day 1 with his pace and accuracy. The 27-year-old fast bowler from Bengal was on target right from the start, removing both openers in quick succession. His ability to move the ball both ways troubled the Bangladeshi top order. For India, his performance was a bright spot in an otherwise rain-hit day.

Akash’s breakthrough performance has shown that India’s pace attack continues to look strong even with young talents stepping up. His removal of Zakir Hasan with a sharp delivery and then getting Shadman Islam out LBW proved to be key moments for India.

Bangladesh's Game Plan

For Bangladesh, the challenge ahead will be significant. Mominul Haque’s innings of 40 not out showed some resilience, but the team will need more contributions from the middle order if they are to post a competitive first-innings score. Mushfiqur Rahim, one of the senior players in the team, will need to stay at the crease and build partnerships to put pressure back on India.

Their biggest concern would be the continued threat from India’s bowling attack. With rain expected to play a part in the coming days, Bangladesh will hope to get some crucial runs on the board when play resumes.

India’s Strategy Moving Forward

India will be looking to wrap up Bangladesh’s innings quickly once the game resumes. With the pitch offering some help to the pacers, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj will be eager to take advantage and pick up more wickets. Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s spin duo, may also play a significant role as the game progresses, especially if the pitch slows down after the rain.

India’s batting lineup, which includes Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, and the explosive Rishabh Pant, will be ready to take on the Bangladeshi bowlers. Having won the first Test in Chennai by a massive 280-run margin, India will be keen to maintain their momentum and push for another dominant win.

Looking Ahead

With Bangladesh at 107/3 and rain expected to continue, the outcome of the match could be influenced by the weather. Both teams will be hoping for clearer skies in the coming days. For now, India holds the upper hand with early wickets, while Bangladesh will need to fight back hard when play resumes.

If the weather allows, Day 2 will be crucial for both teams. Bangladesh will need a big score from Mominul Haque and the middle order to avoid a low first-innings total. On the other hand, India will look to capitalize on the favorable conditions and take control of the match.