Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant Propel India to Commanding Position in First Test Against Bangladesh
Chennai: Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant showcased their batting prowess on Saturday as India reached 205 for three at lunch on the third day of the first Test against Bangladesh. The duo’s unbeaten partnership of 138 runs for the fourth wicket has put India in total control, extending their lead to 432 runs.
Starting the day at 33, Gill displayed a calm demeanor, while Pant, resuming from 12, both capitalized on the Bangladesh bowlers’ struggles in the cool, damp morning conditions. Their sensible shot selection allowed them to build a formidable innings, with Gill bringing up his fifty off just 79 balls, emphasizing his growing confidence in Test cricket.
Gill’s batting style is characterized by minimalism, executing effective shots with understated elegance. He displayed skillful short-arm pulls and precise punches through the covers, particularly against bowlers Nahid Rana and Mahmud Hasan. His steady approach laid a strong foundation for India’s innings.
On the other hand, Pant marked his return to Test cricket after a hiatus since 2022 with an impressive fifty, having been dismissed cheaply in the first innings. Initially cautious, Pant gradually found his rhythm, with a turning point occurring around the first drinks break when he pulled off-spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz for a boundary.
From that moment, Pant’s aggression against Miraz became a hallmark of the session. He reached his fifty off 88 balls and unleashed his trademark shots, including a spectacular scooped six over fine leg off Mahmud, thrilling the sizeable crowd in attendance.
Despite being dropped on 72 by Najmul Hossain Shanto off Shakib Al Hasan, Pant continued to accelerate the scoring, contributing significantly to the 124 runs added during the session. With both batsmen in fine form, India appears poised for a dominant performance as the Test progresses.
