India’s decision to bowl first in Kanpur Test to backfire? Ex-Pakistan star fires warning

Rohit Sharma, on Friday (September 27), opted to bowl first after winning the toss in the ongoing second IND vs BAN Test at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur.

With conditions perfect for fast bowler, Rohit Sharma had no hesitation in bowling first. The decision also ended India's incredible 9-year streak.

The Men In Blue had not opted to bowl first in a home Test since 2015. Also, the last time they decided to field first after winning the toss in a home Test was during the Bengaluru Test against South Africa.

Rohit's decision to bowl first took many by surprise and former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali was one of them. In a video posted on his YouTube channel, Basit Ali said that he was surprised by the hosts' decision to bowl first.

Ali said that batting on the pitch in the fourth innings would be tough before saying that rain might have played a big role in India's decision.

"India won the toss and chose to bowl first. It was a surprise for me. The pitch looked very good. After two balls from Bumrah went one bounce to the keeper, I wondered what would happen in the fourth innings for India. However, there is rain for two days, so that's a factor," said Basit Ali.

Bowling first here means that India want to bat just once: Basit Ali

Speaking further, Basit Ali said that the home side wants to bat just once in the Test and win the game by an innings. Ali also warned Rohit Sharma's team, saying that they could face a few problems if they are required to bat for the second time in the Test.

"Bowling first here means that India want to bat just once. They want to win this Test by an innings, otherwise, there will be a problem. There is a forecast for rain tomorrow as well. If India take seven wickets tomorrow, the Test match will be in their pocket," said Ali.

The opening day of the Test was marred by rain and only 35 overs were bowled. Even though Akash Deep picked up two early wickets for the Rohit Sharma-led side, Bangladesh managed to recover. They were on 107/3 at stumps. Mominul Haque and Mushfiqur Rahim were unbeaten at the crease.