India Breaks 60-Year Tradition By Bowling First In Kanpur Test

The recent Test series between India and Bangladesh seems to be breaking these long-established norms. India also made history by opting to field first at Green Park, Kanpur, ending a 60-year-long streak. However, Bangladesh won the toss and opted to bowl first at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium, marking the first instance in 42 years for a visiting team to take such a decision.

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Historic decision in Kanpur

At Green Park in Kanpur, India made a historic move by opting to field first after winning the toss. This was the first time in 60 years that an Indian team chose to bowl at this venue. The last instance occurred in 1963 under the leadership of Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi, where India drew the match against England after being made to follow on.

With a three-man pace attack, India aimed to take advantage of the favorable bowling conditions, while Bangladesh opted for a spin-heavy strategy by bringing in Taijul Islam and dropping pacers Taskin Ahmed and Nahid Rana.

India’s record at Green Park

Green Park has been a significant venue in Indian cricket history. Out of 24 Tests played here, India has won 7, lost 3, and drawn 13. The venue has been a fortress for India, with many memorable matches, but the decision to field first in this Test added a new chapter to Kanpur’s cricketing legacy.

One of the most iconic matches played at Green Park was the 1963 clash against England, where India, under Pataudi, fought hard to earn a draw after following on. Dilip Sardesai’s unbeaten 77 and Bapu Nadkarni’s century were instrumental in securing the draw for India.

India’s dominance in Test

With a 1-0 lead after the Chennai Test, India is looking to complete a 2-0 whitewash against Bangladesh. This will bring India closer to securing a spot in the World Test Championship final. Under Rohit Sharma’s leadership, the team has been in exceptional form, making the most of the conditions and showcasing their depth in both batting and bowling.

India’s decision to retain their playing XI for the Kanpur Test, including a three-man pace attack, highlights the confidence in their bowlers. Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj have formed a lethal combination, capable of exploiting both subcontinental pitches and overseas conditions.

Bangladesh’s struggles in the series

Bangladesh’s decision to go with three spinners in the second Test raised eyebrows, especially given the grass on the Kanpur pitch. With the inclusion of Taijul Islam alongside Shakib Al Hasan and Mehidy Hasan, Bangladesh banked on their spin strength. However, their pace attack, led by Khaled Ahmed, looked thin in comparison to India’s trio of fast bowlers.

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