In a stunning turn of events, India faced a humiliating defeat at home, bowled out for just 46 runs in their first Test against New Zealand. This marked the lowest total ever recorded by India in Test cricket on home soil, following a dismal performance that raised eyebrows and questions about their batting strategy.
At the end of the second day, New Zealand was in a commanding position at 180 for 3, with Devon Conway leading the charge with an impressive 91 runs. The visitors enjoyed a substantial lead of 134 runs, heading into the dressing room significantly happier than their Indian counterparts.
India entered the match on the heels of a convincing 2-0 series victory over Bangladesh earlier in the month. However, they faced a stark reality check against a New Zealand side that had recently struggled in the subcontinent, having lost 2-0 to Sri Lanka.
The Bengaluru crowd was left in disbelief as India crumbled in just 31.2 overs. Notably, five batters, including star players Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja, failed to score, while Rishabh Pant managed to top the scoresheet with a mere 20 runs. Yashasvi Jaiswal, who spent the longest time at the crease, could only muster 13 runs off 63 balls.
Rohit Sharma, who had played a pivotal role in India’s earlier successes, set a disappointing tone by getting out early, bowled by Tim Southee. Tactical missteps, including opting to bat first on a moisture-laden pitch, contributed to India’s downfall. Captain Rohit admitted that he may have misread the conditions, a sentiment echoed by New Zealand’s captain Tom Latham, who would have batted first had he won the toss.
The New Zealand bowlers, particularly Tim Southee and Matt Henry, exploited the conditions effectively, making it difficult for Indian openers. The opening partnership lasted only 6.3 overs before Rohit’s dismissal triggered a collapse.
India’s batting order came under scrutiny, especially the decision to send Kohli at No. 3 in challenging conditions. His quick dismissal for a duck after just nine balls compounded India’s woes. Sarfaraz Khan also fell victim to a poor shot, while KL Rahul and all-rounders Jadeja and Ashwin failed to deliver when it mattered most.
Matt Henry and Will O’Rourke’s disciplined bowling saw them reap rewards, with Henry taking a five-wicket haul and O’Rourke claiming four wickets in his debut innings in India.
The disparity in fielding quality was evident, with New Zealand showcasing innovative settings and energetic performances, while India struggled with missed opportunities.
In a glimmer of hope for India, R Ashwin took the crucial wicket of Devon Conway just before stumps, while Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja also claimed key scalps. However, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj could not find success with the new ball, failing to add pressure on New Zealand’s batting lineup.
As the Test progresses, India will need to regroup quickly if they hope to make a comeback against a resurgent New Zealand side.
