Akash Deep shines on: rain-disrupted Day 1 of Ind vs Ban 2nd Test. On September 27, 2024, the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023–2025 cycle’s second Test match between India and Bangladesh in Kanpur got underway. India chose to bowl first. Thanks to a strong effort by fast bowler Akash Deep, India was able to take early control despite many weather delays until rain forced an early halt to the day’s play.
India’s Bowling Dominates Early Play
Following their winning formula from the first Test, India got off to a great start when skipper Rohit Sharma chose to bowl first in the cloudy circumstances. With just 10 overs, Akash Deep made an early impression, dismissing Bangladeshi opener Zakir Hasan for a duck thanks to a diving catch by Yashasvi Jaiswal.
Following a successful review by Rohit Sharma, Akash Deep maintained his excellent form and claimed another significant wicket when he trapped Shadman Islam in front of the stumps. Bangladesh was battling at 27/2 at that moment.
Bangladesh’s Resistance
Najmul Hossain Shanto, the captain of Bangladesh, and seasoned batter Mominul Haque showed resiliency following the early defeats by combining for a crucial 51-run partnership. At the conclusion of the day, Mominul had not lost, making her the standout player for Bangladesh.
Due to heavy rain and poor light, Ravichandran Ashwin ended the partnership by removing Shanto, leaving Bangladesh at 107/3 when the umpires called for early stumping.
Rain Interrupts Progress
Unfortunately, the teams could only complete 35 overs of play on Day 1 due to several weather delays.
After lunch, the players briefly resumed the match, but the intense rain forced an early end to the second session after just ten overs. As a result, they had to cancel the day early.
Key Performers
The breakout player of the day was Akash Deep, a young Indian bowler who took two early wickets and exerted strict control over the Bangladeshi batters.
Mominul Haque: Mominul remained steadfast in the face of early blows, leading Bangladesh’s innings with an undefeated forty and assisting his side in pulling away from a perilous situation. His disciplined bowling is making him a stronger candidate to be included in India’s test team for upcoming international trips, as experts compare his performance to that of seasoned bowler Mohammed Shami.
Looking Ahead
Bangladesh will need a strong showing from their middle order to post a competitive score, while India will be looking for improved weather on Day 2 to maintain their lead. With India trying to maintain their lead in the points table, the outcome of this game is important for both teams in the WTC standings.
Excitement and frustration mixed throughout the day’s events, with highlights coming from Bangladesh’s resilience and Akash Deep’s outstanding bowling before the rain arrived.
Score Summary:
- Bangladesh: 107/3 in 35 overs (Mominul Haque 40*, Akash Deep 2/22)
