India vs Bangladesh Test match called off as weather disrupts play

The second Test match between India and Bangladesh in Kanpur suffered another setback as Day 2 was completely washed out due to wet conditions. Despite some relief from the rain, the soaked covers and damp outfield prevented any play. Even with the efforts of three super soppers, the ground remained unplayable. With only 35 overs bowled on Day 1, both teams will be hoping for improved weather tomorrow, as the forecast shows a slight chance for better conditions.

Day 1 also impacted by rain and bad light

The match had already seen rain and bad light on Day 1, allowing only 35 overs to be played. By the close of play on Thursday, Bangladesh had reached 107-3, with Mominul Haque unbeaten on 40 and Mushfiqur Rahim looking solid at the other end. However, with the forecast predicting more rain, there are growing concerns that further interruptions will prevent a result in the match.

Bangladesh’s solid start amidst overcast conditions

On the first day, India’s captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and surprisingly chose to bowl first – a rare decision on home soil. With overcast conditions offering early movement, Indian bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj looked to exploit the weather. However, Bangladesh’s openers, Shadman Islam and Zakir Hasan, showed caution.

Zakir was dismissed for a 24-ball duck, falling to first-change bowler Akash Deep, who continued his knack for breaking partnerships early. Shadman followed soon after, trapped LBW following a successful review by India. Bangladesh’s top-order captain, Najmul Hossain Shanto, formed a 51-run stand with Mominul Haque before Ashwin trapped Shanto with a delivery that stayed straight, marking Ashwin's 420th wicket in Asia.

Impact on both teams' strategies

Bangladesh will be eager to see their experienced middle-order players, such as Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, and Litton Das, build on their solid foundation. The conditions have remained fairly favorable for batting, with no significant deterioration of the pitch. The overcast weather has kept India’s spinners, especially Ravindra Jadeja, relatively quiet.

For India, their strategy will likely involve seeking quick wickets once play resumes to make up for the lost time. The overhead conditions could still offer something for the bowlers, and they will hope for breakthroughs to restrict Bangladesh’s progress. On the flip side, Bangladesh may look to capitalize on their steady start and patiently build a respectable first-innings total.

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Weekend forecast raises further concerns

With rain expected to persist throughout the weekend, the chances of completing the remaining days of the Test are becoming slimmer. Both teams will be hoping for windows of clear weather to achieve a result, but with 55 overs already lost and more interruptions on the horizon, it will take a significant shift in conditions to make that happen.

The ongoing rain has left the second Test in Kanpur hanging in uncertainty. As Bangladesh sits on 107-3, both teams will hope the weather improves to make progress in the match. If the rain subsides, India will push for quick wickets, while Bangladesh will aim to build on their strong start.