India vs Bangladesh, 2nd Test: Rain Threat Looms as Hosts Eye Series Sweep in Kanpur

Kanpur: Bangladesh, fresh from a 2-0 series win in Pakistan, faced a reality check in the first Test against India in Chennai. Despite a promising start, India’s batting depth and bowling prowess proved too much for the visitors, resulting in a resounding 280-run defeat.

Despite underwhelming contributions from Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who collectively scored just 34 runs in four innings, India showcased their bench strength with three centuries and two half-centuries. In the bowling department, Indian seamers claimed eight wickets in Bangladesh’s first innings, while the spinners took nine in the second.

As the series shifts to Kanpur, conditions could challenge Bangladesh further. The last Test here saw New Zealand’s tail fight for a draw. The pitch remains uncertain as the ground staff have prepared two different surfaces, with a final decision pending on which will be used.

Historically, Kanpur pitches have supported fast bowlers early on, gradually shifting to favour spinners in the later stages. However, rain is forecasted for the first three days, which could impact the pitch, toss decisions and team strategies.

Bangladesh will need to sustain their performance for longer stretches to compete. In their second innings at Chennai, openers provided a solid start. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto scored a fighting 82, while Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Das and Mehidy Hasan Miraz made promising contributions. However, consistency will be key to challenging India at home.

The pitch in Chennai had good bounce for both pacers and spinners. Kanpur’s black-soil surfaces, however, are expected to be flatter and slower with lower bounce, although rain could still affect the conditions.