IND vs BAN, 2nd Test: “We were ready to give everything for 100,” says Rohit Sharma about India’s courageous game

Captain Rohit Sharma with head coach Gautam Gambhir. | Photo credit: Sandeep Saxena

India is ready to take the risk of being bowled at 100 to get a result in the weather-hit second Test against Bangladesh, Rohit Sharma said after the hosts secured a dramatic victory in Kanpur on Tuesday (October 1). . 2024).

India comfortably won the match on the fifth day despite losing two full days due to the wet outfield at the Green Park Stadium. Even on the first day, only 35 overs were possible.

After defeating Bangladesh by 233, India struggled for 285 in 34.4 overs in T20 mode before declaring their first innings. After losing two batters overnight, Bangladesh were bowled out in their second innings at lunchtime and India ended the game in the second session.

“After losing two and a half days, we wanted to get them out as quickly as possible on the fourth day and see what we could do with the bat. When they were bowled out for 230, it wasn't about that.” “We get runs, but the overs we get,” Rohit said at the post-match presentation.

“To make a game out of it on this pitch was a great achievement. We were willing to take that risk because if you try to bat like that, you can get thrown out for a low score. But we were ready for it even if we were bowled at 100-120.

It was India's record and 18th consecutive home win. Among the new players, Rohit was happy about Akash Deep's tireless efforts.

“He was good (Akash Deep). He has played a lot of domestic cricket. When you come through the ranks like that, there are a lot of overs in your legs. He has the quality and the ability. Physically good too – “You can bowl for long periods. You have to make sure you prepare your bench strength,” the captain said.

It was the first Test series under new head coach Gautam Gambhir, who took over the responsibility from Rahul Dravid.

“We had a fantastic time (with Dravid) but life goes on. Gautam Gambhir, I have played with him and I know what attitude he has,” Rohit said.

Ashwin was named player of the series for his all-round performance. He rated the unlikely victory as “massive” in the context of the World Test Championship.

“When we threw them out yesterday, it was just after lunch. Rohit was keen that we needed 80 overs to bowl them.”

“And the moment he turned himself inside out and said where we're going to go even if we finish under 230. It's not just him saying that, he went out and hit his first ball for a six. He bet.” “We changed the tone that way,” said the Premier spinner.

Opposing captain Najmul Hasan Shanto said the team's performance in the two Test series let them down.

“We didn’t do well in both Tests. We have to bat well in these conditions. If you look at our batsmen – we played 30-40 balls and got out. In a Test match, it's important when the batsmen come in, you.” “I should try to score big runs,” Shanto said.

“The way Ashwin and Jaddu fought that time (in Chennai after India had lost six) – they fought really well. As a bowling unit we have to look at these moments – how we can get these wickets. “That partnership cost us this game,” Shanto added.