Ravichandran Ashwin scored a crucial century in the first Test against Bangladesh in Chennai on September 19, 2024. India was in trouble at 144/6 when Ashwin partnered with Ravindra Jadeja for an unbeaten 195-run stand, helping India reach 339/6 by the end of Day 1. Ashwin's 102* off 108 balls, featuring 10 fours and two sixes, marked his sixth Test century and his first against Bangladesh. His performance played a key role in reviving India's innings after a collapse against Bangladesh's pace attack.
Ashwin’s ability to handle both pace and spin was crucial on a Chepauk pitch that offered bounce and some assistance for the bowlers. His century was not only vital in the context of this match but also significant for his career. It was his sixth Test hundred and his first against Bangladesh. Additionally, this marked his second century at his home ground, the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, where he had last reached three figures against England in 2021. The conditions required the right mix of defensive play and calculated strokes, and Ashwin adapted perfectly, showcasing his experience and class.
Bangladesh had initially taken control of the match, with Hasan Mahmud dismantling India’s top order. Yashasvi Jaiswal tried to steady the ship with a gritty 56, but wickets continued to fall at regular intervals. With India’s top six back in the pavilion and the scoreboard reading 144/6, Bangladesh seemed poised to dominate. However, Ashwin and Jadeja counter-attacked, shifting the momentum back in India’s favor. The two all-rounders used their experience to manage the difficult situation, with Jadeja playing a composed supporting role.
Ashwin’s knock also had historical significance, as it made him the second player in cricket history to have both 1000 runs and 100 wickets in Test matches. Only his teammate, Ravindra Jadeja, had previously achieved this dual feat. For Ashwin, this century reinforced his stature as one of India's most dependable lower-order batsmen in Test cricket. Despite being better known for his off-spin, Ashwin’s batting has often rescued India in difficult situations.
The century comes at a critical juncture in Ashwin's career, as he continues to show his value to the Indian team, both with the ball and the bat. The partnership with Jadeja ensured that India ended the day in a strong position after being on the verge of collapse. Ashwin’s ability to handle the pressure and anchor the innings underscores his importance in the Indian Test lineup. With two more days of play, India will look to capitalize on the platform set by Ashwin and Jadeja, and push for a commanding position in the match.
This article is taken from an Indian sports website Hindustantimes.Com
In conclusion, Ravichandran Ashwin's crucial century in the first Test against Bangladesh not only rescued India from a precarious position but also reinforced his legacy as a key all-rounder in Test cricket. His composed knock, combined with Ravindra Jadeja's steady support, turned the tide in India's favor after early setbacks. Ashwin's ability to navigate challenging conditions, along with his historic achievement of 1000 runs and 100 wickets, solidifies his place among India's finest. This performance serves as a timely reminder of his value to the team, both with bat and ball, as India aims to dominate the remainder of the match.
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