In a recent revelation, Ravichandran Ashwin shared that the Indian leadership group had debated the option of forfeiting their first innings during the Kanpur Test against Bangladesh. This consideration arose due to the challenges posed by inclement weather, which washed out play on the first two days of the match.
Rain Woes and a Desperate Plan
The Test match saw only 35 overs of play on Day 1 before rain disrupted proceedings. The entire Day 2 was washed out, and on Day 3, despite efforts from the ground staff, the poor condition of the outfield delayed play further. With India running out of time to force a result, captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir explored drastic measures, including forfeiting their first innings to keep the game alive.
Despite these discussions, the oppressive heat of Kanpur and the intense physical toll on players, particularly the fast bowlers, caused them to reconsider. Ashwin remarked that conditions were grueling, stating, “We spoke whether we should forfeit the innings, but the heat was intense… I had to wear four shirts in a day, and it still wasn’t enough.” The toll on the players, especially bowlers, was a key factor in the decision-making process.
India’s Aggressive Approach
After bowling Bangladesh out for 235, India took a bold approach when their innings finally resumed. Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal led the charge, launching an aggressive assault on the Bangladesh bowling attack. India declared after scoring 285 for nine, securing a 52-run lead, which left little doubt about the outcome of the match. This aggressive strategy was essential in India’s eventual triumph.
Ashwin noted that even though the team didn’t forfeit, the aggressive batting plan allowed them to dictate the terms of the match. Despite initial reluctance from bowlers like Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah, India’s decision to push forward paid off as they went on to secure a comprehensive victory.
Mixed Reactions from Ashwin and Bumrah
Though the leadership team was confident in their approach, not all players were thrilled with the decision to continue pushing for a result under such challenging conditions. Ashwin admitted that he and Bumrah were not pleased with the idea of bowling again after just finishing their first spells in the sapping Kanpur heat. “I wasn’t too pleased; neither was Bumrah. But once you know you have to do it, you prepare for the sessions ahead,” said Ashwin.
He further praised Rohit Sharma’s leadership, particularly his willingness to lead by example. Ashwin highlighted Rohit’s fearless batting, noting that when the captain decided to smash the first ball for six, it set the tone for the rest of the team.
India’s eventual 7-wicket victory in the match completed a 2-0 sweep over Bangladesh, proving that their bold strategies, while unconventional, were effective in sealing the win.
This match also underscored Rohit Sharma’s leadership style, where aggressive decision-making and leading by example have become hallmarks of his captaincy.
