Set a tricky chase of 273, a rain delay of almost three hours saw India’s target reduced to 150 in 26 overs in the first one-day international between the sides on Sunday.
Uthappa gave India a flying start with a 44-ball half century and Rahane added 64 as India won with seven wickets in hand and as many balls to spare.
Raina felt Uthappa and Rahane’s 99-run partnership was crucial and was also pleased with the performances from bowlers Parvez Rasool (2-60 off 10 overs) and Akshar Patel (1-59 off 10) on debut in trying conditions.
Raina said: “(I am) pleased, especially with Robin and Ajju (Rahane).
“Robin has been batting well and Ajju is one of the cleanest batsmen I have seen.
“(I am) very happy with the bowlers, especially Rasool and Akshar. And obviously (Amit) Mishra (who took two wickets).
“It was very tough for the bowlers in these conditions. Both fast bowlers were cramping up.
“(They were) the toughest conditions we have bowled in, in terms of the heat.”
Man-of-the-match Rahane added: “(I am) really happy.
“The start is really important for any series. The partnership at the top was crucial, but the bowlers did really well in that heat.
“It was really challenging. We just wanted to give our 100 per cent. We thought they were 15-20 (runs) short. The credit goes to the bowlers.”
India have rested several of their stars for the three-match series, including regular captain MS Dhoni, leading batsman Virat Kohli and spinner Ravichandran Ashwin.
Despite the high-profile absentees, Bangladesh were unable to capitalise and captain Mushfiqur Rahim – who top-scored for his side with 59 – felt their bowling was to blame.
“After looking at that wicket I think we were 20 (runs) short,” Mushfiqur said.
“But they batted really well, especially in the first 10 overs. Our bowlers also gave away loose balls. Their bowlers didn’t do that.”
Game two of the series will be played in Dhaka on Tuesday.
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