The 1st Test match between India and New Zealand at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru has been a tale of two contrasting days. On Day 2, India suffered a catastrophic collapse, being bowled out for just 46 runs, their third-lowest total in Test history. This dismal performance was largely due to the aggressive bowling by New Zealand's pacers, particularly Matt Henry and Will O'Rourke, who made the Indian batsmen look hapless. The hosts' decision to bat first after winning the toss proved to be a costly mistake as the overcast conditions and the green pitch favored the visitors' bowling attack. Rohit Sharma, the Indian captain, later admitted that he misjudged the pitch, which led to this unfortunate outcome.
On the other hand, New Zealand's batting lineup looked comfortable and well-set. Devon Conway, who scored 91 runs before being dismissed by Ravichandran Ashwin, laid the foundation for a strong innings. The visitors eventually reached 180/3 at stumps on Day 2, with Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell unbeaten at the crease. This left New Zealand with a healthy lead of 134 runs, setting them up for a potential victory in the match.
Day 3 of the match saw New Zealand continue their dominance. Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell resumed their innings from where they left off on the previous day. The duo added 26 runs for the fourth wicket, taking New Zealand's total to 206/4. The pressure on India's bowling unit was immense as they looked to restrict the visitors and make a comeback in the match. Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah were the standout bowlers for India, but they could not prevent New Zealand from extending their lead further.
The key moment of the day came when Mohammed Siraj removed Daryl Mitchell for 18 runs, caught by Yashasvi Jaiswal at gully. This breakthrough gave India some hope, but it was short-lived as Jasprit Bumrah soon got rid of Tom Blundell, who fell for 5 runs. The lead continued to swell as New Zealand crossed the 200-run mark, with Rachin Ravindra and Tim Southee taking charge of the innings.
Tim Southee, in particular, has been instrumental in New Zealand's success. His partnership with Rachin Ravindra added 137 runs in just 132 balls for the eighth wicket, taking New Zealand's total to 310 runs. This partnership not only extended their lead but also showcased the resilience and determination of the New Zealand batting lineup. Rachin Ravindra's century has been a highlight of the match, and his partnership with Tim Southee has been crucial in taking New Zealand to a strong position.
The Indian team, on the other hand, faces a daunting task. They need to take quick wickets and restrict New Zealand's lead to make a comeback in the match. The pressure is mounting on the Indian bowlers, especially Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, who need to deliver under pressure. The Indian batting lineup also needs to redeem itself after a disastrous performance on Day 2.
The match has been a testament to the skill and determination of both teams. New Zealand's bowling attack has been relentless, while their batting lineup has shown remarkable resilience. India, however, has the potential to stage a comeback if they can manage to take wickets and restrict New Zealand's lead. The outcome of this match will be crucial in determining the course of the series and the World Test Championship standings.
As the match enters its final stages, all eyes are on Tim Southee and Rachin Ravindra. Will they be able to extend their lead and secure a victory for New Zealand? Or will India manage to mount a comeback and turn the tables? The cricketing world is eagerly waiting to find out as this thrilling match reaches its climax.
