India toils hard to win against Bangladesh

It was a finally a victory for the Indians in the one-dayers after disappointing results in the two consecutive one-day series outside the home soil as India opened their account against Bangladesh in their first match of the Asia Cup. India beat Bangladesh by 6 wickets with 1 over still to go in the match.

Virat Kohli who was captaining the side in absence of Mahendra Singh Dhoni won the toss against the hosts and decided to field first. Bangladesh made a good start despite losing Shamsur Rahman (7) early in the innings. Anamul Haque (77) and Mushfiqur Rahim (117) steadied the ship for the Bangladeshis with a 133-run 3^rd wicket partnership. But the hosts kept losing wickets at regular intervals as they managed to score only 279/8 in their quota of 50 overs. Mohammad Shami was the pick of the India bowlers as he finished his quota of 10 overs with the figures of 50/4.

Coming on to bat India made a slow but steady start through Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma. Just when it looked like India was slowly taking control of the proceedings of the match, Bangladesh struck back with 2 quick wickets. Dhawan was trapped leg before wicket on 21 by Abdur Razzak and Rohit Sharma was castled for 28 by Ziaur Rahman. The pressure was back on the Indians and it was once again up to Virat Kohli to take India over the finishing line. Kohli recorded 19^th century of his career and Ajinkya Rahane gave him good support at the other end as India coasted to victory. When Kohli went out on 136 India had the match under total control. Rahane also scored a valueable 73 at the other end.

India opened their account in the Asia Cup on a winning note although bowling still remains a matter of concern for the Indians. To emerge victorious in the Asia Cup Indian bowlers need to pull up their game against the mightier opponents like Pakistan and Sri Lanka. India will face Sri Lanka in their next encounter in 2 days time. It will be a big test Virat Kohli as a captain as well.

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About Argha Ghosh

An ardent follower of sports and die-hard Manchester United fan, Argha's ultimate dream is to watch a Manchester derby from the Stretford End at the Old Trafford.