In the first Test between India and New Zealand at Bengaluru, India found themselves in deep trouble after a shocking batting collapse in the first innings. By recording the lowest-ever Test total by any team in Asia, India’s first innings performance stunned fans. However, a solid start in their second innings provided some much-needed hope.
India’s First Innings Struggles
After New Zealand put up a commanding first innings total of 402 runs, led by Rachin Ravindra’s brilliant 134 and Devon Conway’s composed 91, India crumbled under the pressure. Their batting lineup failed spectacularly, managing only 46 runs, leaving them 356 runs behind. Ravindra Jadeja was the standout bowler for India, picking up 3 wickets for 72 runs, but New Zealand’s lead was already overwhelming.
Steady Start in the Second Innings
As India started their second innings, they knew they were in a dire situation. The deficit of 356 was massive, but openers Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal provided a glimmer of hope with a steady partnership. At tea, they had put together an unbeaten 57-run stand, with Sharma on 27* and Jaiswal on 29*.
The pitch, which had earlier been challenging, seemed to have settled down. Rohit looked in fine touch, playing elegant drives and flicks to keep the scoreboard ticking. Jaiswal, while not as fluent initially, found his rhythm as the innings progressed. Their partnership ensured that India was not bogged down by the pressure of the large deficit, maintaining a positive run rate of close to four runs per over.
Challenges Ahead for India
Despite the encouraging start, India still faces an uphill battle. The pitch has shown signs of uneven bounce, which could become more unpredictable over the next two days. Spinners are expected to play a crucial role as the surface wears down. India’s ability to handle the spinners and negotiate the tricky bounce will be key if they are to stage a comeback.
Rachin Ravindra’s Heroics for New Zealand
Earlier, New Zealand’s innings was bolstered by a masterclass from Rachin Ravindra. His aggressive batting after lunch helped New Zealand add valuable runs, with the lead crossing the 350-run mark. Ravindra’s ability to shift gears, particularly in the latter part of the innings, showcased his adaptability. His 134-run knock, supported by Tim Southee’s half-century, put New Zealand in a commanding position.
India’s bowlers struggled to contain Ravindra, especially after the lunch break, and a missed LBW review on 110 allowed him to continue his assault. He added another 24 runs before being dismissed as the last wicket, but by then, the damage had been done.
What Next for India?
With a deficit of 299 runs and seven sessions remaining in the match, India is in a precarious position. To salvage the game, they will need to build on the solid foundation laid by Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal. The next session will be crucial for India, as they aim to head into the fourth day with a fighting chance.
If India can bat through the next few sessions without losing wickets, they might be able to shift the pressure back onto New Zealand. However, any lapse in concentration could see the game slip away from them.
Brief Scores,
Team | Score | Leading Performers |
---|---|---|
New Zealand | 402 (Rachin Ravindra 134, Devon Conway 91) | Ravindra Jadeja 3-72 |
India | 46 & 57/0 (Yashasvi Jaiswal 29*, Rohit Sharma 27*) | Trail by 299 runs |
India will need to dig deep in their second innings to make a match of this, but with the pitch deteriorating, New Zealand will fancy their chances of wrapping up a win.