Bangladesh not underdogs: R Ashwin reckons Chennai pitch perfect for Test cricket

India vs Bangladesh: Ace spinner R Ashwin reckons that Bangladesh cannot be considered underdogs after their historic series win in Pakistan. Ashwin also shared his memories of playing Test cricket in his hometown, Chennai.

In Short

• R Ashwin reckons that Bangladesh cannot be considered an underdog
• Ashwin shares his memories of playing Test cricket in his hometown
• Bangladesh opt to bowl first on an overcast Chennai morning vs India

Star Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin shared his fond memories and excitement of playing in his hometown, Chennai, ahead of the first Test against Bangladesh at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. With four Tests already under his belt at his home ground, Ashwin expressed his emotional connection with the venue, particularly recalling the unforgettable encounter against England post the Covid-19 break.

"That game against England was special," Ashwin told the official broadcasters, Sports18. . "It was the first time the crowd was back, and the reception I received was beyond my expectations. To have the match turn out the way it did for me was truly special. Chennai has always been a significant ground for me, filled with incredible memories, both old and new."

Ashwin, who has established himself as a crucial player for India in Test cricket, emphasized the hard work and dedication it takes to maintain peak performance, particularly with age. "Cricket is a game I adore, and I've enjoyed every moment on the field. Age is just a number, but the work you put in over the years takes its toll. You need to work harder to find that edge," he said.

IND vs BAN 1st Test, Day 1 Live

Reflecting on past matches at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Ashwin noted the balance the pitch offers to both batters and bowlers. "It's always been a good Test match pitch. Most games here, barring one against England, have seen huge scores. The game against Australia felt like 500 versus 500. We're playing on a red soil pitch again, so there'll be bounce and value for the bowlers."

As India take on resurgent Bangladesh in the Chennai Test, Ashwin praised their opponents for their recent form, including a historic 2–0 series win against Pakistan. "Bangladesh have proven they are a team on the rise. They challenged us when we played them in Bangladesh, and their recent win over Pakistan was exceptional. I've always loved seeing underdogs perform, but you can't call Bangladesh underdogs anymore," Ashwin said.

On Thursday, Bangladesh skipper Najmul Shanto won the toss and opted to bowl first, looking to exploit India's vulnerability against spin. India's stalwarts, including Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and KL Rahul, have seen their averages against spin dip since 2021, giving Bangladesh's spin trio of Shakib Al Hasan, Taijul Islam, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz a potential edge.

Despite India's formidable home record of 40-4 in the last decade, Ashwin acknowledged that Bangladesh are a dangerous side. Bangladesh recently trounced Pakistan in a 2-0 Test series, while India come into the series after a 0-2 defeat to Sri Lanka in the ODI format.