Published By: Sanchari Das

Recalling the First Ever Test Bangladesh Played Against India in 2000

Bangladesh's test debut in 2000 remains a landmark moment

After a much-needed break, India is gearing up to start their new season with a two-test series against Bangladesh. The first test will be played in Chennai on September 19, followed by the second in Kanpur on September 27. While India's players have had time to recharge, Bangladesh comes into the series brimming with confidence after sweeping PAK 2-0. Historically, India has dominated Bangladesh in test cricket, winning 11 of the 13 matches. Out of the eight series between the teams, India has won seven, with only one drawn match in 2015.

A rivalry rooted in 2000's debut

The rivalry between India and Bangladesh may be more profound than others, but it has grown steadily since Bangladesh earned test status in 2000. Their inaugural match against India in Dhaka is etched in history as Bangladesh's first test match. India, led by Sourav Ganguly, clinched a comfortable nine-wicket victory.

However, Bangladesh made a strong impression, with Aminul Islam's century showcasing their potential. The match marked a special moment for Bangladesh, although it ended with India's expected triumph.

Bangladesh's historic first test

Bangladesh's test debut in 2000 remains a landmark moment. Captained by Naimur Rahman Durjoy, they took on an experienced Indian team in front of an electrifying crowd in Dhaka. Although India was the clear favourite, Bangladesh's first innings score of 400, bolstered by Aminul Islam's 145 and Habibur Bashar’s 71, caught everyone by surprise, while Sunil Joshi clinched a fifer for the visitors (5/142).

It was a proud moment for Bangladesh, with Naimur also shining with the ball. His six-wicket haul restricted India's lead to just 29 runs, keeping the contest alive for much of the game. While Sunil Joshi scored (92) and captain Ganguly (84) managed the run flow for India.

India's experience seals the deal

While Bangladesh showed great promise in their debut test, India's experience eventually came through. After a balanced start, India bowled out Bangladesh for 91 in their second innings, with Javagal Srinath and Joshi each taking 3 wickets, leaving themselves a modest target of 63.

Rahul Dravid's quickfire 41 ensured India crossed the line comfortably. The match ended with India securing victory in just 15 overs. With his all-round performance, Sunil Joshi was named Player of the Match, marking India's dominant start to a one-sided rivalry in tests.

Close encounters but no victories for Bangladesh

Since that historic test in 2000, India and Bangladesh have met 13 times in the longer format. India has continued its dominance, winning 11 matches. Bangladesh, however, has managed to secure two draws, thanks to strong leadership from Habibul Bashar in 2007 and Mushfiqur Rahim in 2015.

One of the closest encounters came in December 2022, when Bangladesh almost achieved a famous victory. Reducing India to 74 for 7 in the fourth innings, Bangladesh was on the verge of a breakthrough before Ravi Ashwin and Shreyas Iyer's partnership denied them once again.

Bangladesh's test revival against India

India, ranked No. 2 in tests, last played Bangladesh nearly two years ago. They comfortably swept the series 2-0 in December 2022. However, things have changed for Bangladesh since then. They've won five out of eight tests played in the last two years, showing significant improvement. Their recent 2-0 series sweep in PAK gives them hope as they prepare to face India.

Although India remains dominant at home, Bangladesh will recall how they pushed India close in their previous encounter. Najmul Hossain Shanto's men know that facing India is a different challenge altogether, but they will be motivated to prove that they are no longer pushovers. This renewed confidence could make the upcoming series a thrilling contest.