New Zealand continued to assert their dominance over India in the first Test in Bengaluru, thanks to a fantastic bowling display led by Matt Henry, who took an impressive five wickets. India crumbled under pressure, posting a low total of just 46 runs, their third-lowest in Test cricket and the lowest total by any team in Asia. In response, Devon Conway anchored New Zealand’s innings with an unbeaten half-century, putting the visitors in a commanding position.
India’s Struggle with the Bat
The post-lunch session on day two proved to be a disaster for India, as they managed to add only 12 more runs to their total before being bowled out for 46. Henry and William O’Rourke were the stars for New Zealand, with Henry finishing with remarkable figures of 5 for 15, while O’Rourke took 4 for 22. India’s batting lineup struggled against the disciplined New Zealand bowlers, with poor shot selection contributing to their downfall.
Ravichandran Ashwin was dismissed without scoring, nicking off to Henry, while Rishabh Pant’s fortune ran out as India found themselves at 39 for 8. Mohammed Siraj briefly lifted the crowd’s spirits with a boundary, but the joy was short-lived. O’Rourke dismissed Jasprit Bumrah, and Henry wrapped up the innings by taking the final wicket of Kuldeep Yadav.
This was India’s lowest score in home Tests, and their performance was marred by both excellent bowling from New Zealand and a series of injudicious shots from the Indian batsmen.
New Zealand’s Response Led by Conway
With a modest total of 46 to chase, New Zealand began their innings cautiously. The Indian bowlers, particularly Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, were not at their best, and the absence of a third seamer forced India to introduce spin early. New Zealand’s openers, Tom Latham and Devon Conway, took full advantage of the situation, putting up a half-century stand.
India’s only success came when they reviewed a decision successfully to get Latham out off the bowling of Kuldeep Yadav. Despite this breakthrough, Conway continued to pile on the runs and remained unbeaten on 61 at the end of the session. His aggressive approach helped New Zealand extend their lead and build a strong foundation.
India’s Bowling Challenges
India’s bowling attack struggled to impact the New Zealand batsmen. Bumrah and Siraj, who were expected to capitalize on the favourable bowling conditions, failed to make significant breakthroughs. The decision to go into the match with only two frontline seamers seemed to backfire, as the spinners were brought in early but could not maintain consistent pressure.
As the sun came out and conditions improved for batting, Conway and the rest of the New Zealand lineup looked more comfortable at the crease. The lack of support for the Indian bowlers became apparent, and New Zealand capitalized on every opportunity.
Key Takeaways and Challenges Ahead
For India, the road to recovery in this Test match looks steep. With New Zealand already ahead by 36 runs and Conway still at the crease, India will need an extraordinary bowling performance to claw their way back into the match. The Indian spinners might come into play later in the game, but to have a chance, India must take quick wickets in New Zealand’s first innings.
On the other hand, New Zealand will be looking to build a substantial lead and put India under more pressure when they come out to bat again. The visitors have made excellent use of the conditions so far, and their bowlers, especially Henry, have put them in a winning position.
Match Summary
| Team | Score | Key Players |
|---|---|---|
| India | 46 all out | Matt Henry 5-15, William O’Rourke 4-22 |
| New Zealand | 82/1 (lead by 36 runs) | Devon Conway 61* |
New Zealand’s dominance has continued after Henry’s five-wicket haul, and with Conway leading the charge, India faces a tough challenge ahead to stay in the contest,
