Bangladesh’s young fast bowler Hasan Mahmud, who made headlines on the first day of the first Test being played between India and Bangladesh in Chennai, said after the match that if his bowlers tighten their belts, Bangladesh can get India out for less than 400. The first day of the Chennai Test started brilliantly for the guests. Due to Hasan’s fiery bowling, India lost the wickets of Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli at a score of 34. At the same time, the team lost its 6 batsmen at 144. But after this, a partnership of 195 runs between R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja helped India come back in the match. At the end of the first day’s play, India’s score is 339 runs for the loss of 6 wickets. Ashwin is present at the crease with 102 runs and Jadeja with 86 runs.
Hasan Mahmud said in the press conference after the first day’s play, “I think if we can get them out before 400, it will be good for us. The wicket is now very easy to bat on and the conditions are favorable to the batsmen. We are trying to put pressure on India. Hopefully we will be able to do that.”
Mahmud admitted that Bangladesh’s line length became a bit erratic and hence conceded runs, especially in the final session. But he also acknowledged that his team has the power to bounce back and if they can take early wickets on the second day, the pressure will be back on India.
Mahmood said, “We could have been a little more disciplined in our bowling. We are trying to bowl in the right direction and put pressure on the opposition team. The momentum is with India, but if we try, we can get them out for less than 400. If we get early breakthroughs, we can make a comeback. The pitch is flat, but if you bowl well, it is possible to control the batsmen.”