India continued their stellar run at home with a comprehensive victory over Bangladesh in the second Test at Kanpur, sealing the series in style. This marks India’s sixth consecutive Test win, leaving them just one short of equaling their longest winning streak in the format. With three Tests against New Zealand scheduled from mid-October, India will have the chance to set a new record soon.
A Test Full of Drama and Calculated Risks
What unfolded in Kanpur was nothing short of extraordinary. India overcame a challenging pitch, losing two and a half days to weather interruptions, and still managed to secure a result. Their bold approach with the bat on Day 4, led by Rohit Sharma’s aggressive captaincy, set the tone. As Rohit explained post-match, the decision to push for quick runs despite the risk of being bowled out cheaply was a calculated gamble. The team’s mindset to go for the win, even under adverse conditions, exemplifies the confidence within this group of players.
India’s bowlers, without the services of Mohammed Shami, rose to the occasion. The pace unit, spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah, and the spinners, led by Ravichandran Ashwin, ensured India capitalized on every opportunity.
Ravichandran Ashwin Shines Again
With yet another masterful performance, Ravichandran Ashwin claimed the Player of the Series award, marking his 11th such accolade in Tests, tying him with Muttiah Muralitharan for the most in the format. Ashwin’s subtle variations, precise rhythm, and tactical awareness proved pivotal. Reflecting on the match, he credited Rohit’s leadership and the cohesive bowling unit that included Bumrah, Siraj, Akash Deep, and Jadeja.
Yashasvi Jaiswal: Player of the Match
Yashasvi Jaiswal continued his sensational form, earning the Player of the Match award for his twin fifties at a strike rate of over 100 in both innings (72 off 51 and 51 off 45). His fearless approach with the bat perfectly aligned with the team’s aggressive game plan. Jaiswal’s efforts have taken his 2024 tally in Tests to 929 runs, the most by an Indian batter before the age of 23 in a calendar year, surpassing the great Sunil Gavaskar’s 918 runs in 1971.
Bangladesh’s Struggles Continue
For Bangladesh, the series highlighted their struggles in adapting to challenging conditions. Captain Shanto rued the lack of big contributions from his batters, emphasizing the need for partnerships and consistent performances in Tests. The standout efforts came from Mominul Haque with the bat and Mehidy Hasan Miraz with the ball, but their collective output fell short against a dominant Indian side.
Key Takeaways and Records from the Kanpur Test
- High Run-Rate Brilliance: India recorded the highest-ever run rate in a Test (7.36), a testament to their aggressive batting across both innings.
- Historic Run Rates in India: The Kanpur Test now holds the record for the highest run rate in Tests played on Indian soil (4.39).
- Fastest Test Win with Limited Balls: India’s victory came after batting just 312 balls across both innings, the fourth-fastest in history for any Test.
- Young Achievers: Jaiswal became only the second Indian to score 50+ runs at a strike rate above 100 in both innings of a Test, joining Virender Sehwag.
India’s Home Dominance
India’s 18 consecutive Test series wins at home (2013–2024) underline their unparalleled supremacy on home soil, putting them far ahead of other cricketing powerhouses.
What’s Next?
India and Bangladesh will meet again in just five days for a three-match T20I series. Looking further ahead, the three-Test series against New Zealand will test India’s resolve and give them an opportunity to break their record for consecutive Test victories.
With their eyes on the World Test Championship (WTC), this Indian team, led by Rohit Sharma, continues to evolve, adapting to conditions and finding new heroes. Whether it’s seasoned veterans like Ashwin and Bumrah or rising stars like Jaiswal and Akash Deep, the depth of this Indian side is remarkable.
As cricket fans, we’re in for more thrilling moments from this group of players who continue to set the benchmark in Test cricket.
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