The third day of the first Test match between India and New Zealand at the iconic Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru was nothing short of a cricketing spectacle. Enthusiasts were treated to an exhilarating day of play, rich in drama and intensity. The session saw an impressive 453 runs being scored, coupled with the fall of 10 wickets, maintaining a gripping contest between the two formidable sides. As the dust settled on an intense day of cricket, New Zealand stayed on top, but not without India mounting a resolute and aggressive comeback in their second innings.
India, setting the pace in their second innings, showcased intent and urgency. The hosts raced along at an aggressive 4.71 runs per over across 49 overs, as they slashed their significant first-innings deficit of 356 runs down to a more manageable 125. With two days of play still to go, and seven wickets remaining, India’s prospects in the Test match appeared brighter. Yet, the New Zealand team, also known as the Black Caps, held a critical advantage with the crucial wicket of Indian skipper Virat Kohli. His dismissal for a stellar 70 runs off the last ball of the day tilted the momentum in New Zealand’s favor.
From the outset, Indian captain Rohit Sharma set the tempo with a blazing 63-ball 52. His fearless approach laid the groundwork for India’s spirited fightback. Sharma, alongside young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, constructed a solid 72-run stand. Jaiswal, however, was not at his fluent best, and his adventurous attempt to tackle Ajaz Patel’s left-arm spin proved costly. His downfall initiated a domino effect, leading to another unexpected dismissal. Sharma, batting confidently, suffered an unusual dismissal — a bottom-edge that lethargically rolled onto the stumps, catching him and everyone by surprise. This twin strike momentarily restored New Zealand’s upper hand.
Undeterred, India continued to press forward with aggression. Sarfaraz Khan entered the fray full of vigor and excitement, launching an assault chiefly against the spinners. Ajaz Patel bore the brunt of Sarfaraz’s tactics, as the batsman employed a series of powerful slog-sweeps and elegant late cuts.
. Sarfaraz extended his exuberant play when pace bowler came on, audaciously executing an upper-cut that soared for six over deep backward point.
Virat Kohli, India’s stalwart, matched Sarfaraz’s intensity. Together, they forged a formidable 136-run partnership amid resounding cheers from an exhilarated crowd, with both players adopting an attacking strategy against New Zealand’s spinners. Just as the pairing seemed destined to close the day undefeated, fate intervened. Kohli narrowly survived a chance from Glenn Phillips, when Ajaz Patel dropped what seemed a straightforward catch at first slip. Yet, in a dramatic twist, Phillips sent Kohli back to the pavilion, nicking off the last delivery of the day. This pivotal moment ensured New Zealand ended the day on a high note, retaining their edge over India.
Despite India’s determined batting showcase, the day undoubtedly belonged to New Zealand’s rising sensation, Rachin Ravindra. The young all-rounder dazzled with a majestic unbeaten 134, reinforcing New Zealand’s dominance with an imposing first-innings total. Following up on his splendid performance in Sri Lanka, Ravindra exuded confidence and composure against both pace and spin. As wickets tumbled around him, Ravindra stood firm, orchestrating a crucial alliance with Tim Southee, who contributed a vital 65 runs. Their partnership thwarted India’s attempts to close New Zealand’s innings swiftly during the morning session.
Indian bowlers Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Ravindra Jadeja pressed hard initially, aiming to swiftly wrap up the visitors’ innings. However, Ravindra and Southee’s counter-attack turned the tide in New Zealand’s favor. Determined to extend their innings, they added 169 crucial runs for the last three wickets, significantly denting India’s plans. A rare opportunity presented itself when Ravindra was on 110, but an LBW appeal off Kuldeep Yadav went unreviewed by India, allowing Ravindra to add another decisive 24 runs to his tally.
As the sun sets on a riveting day at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, the contest sets up for a thrilling fourth day. While the 356-run deficit posed by New Zealand loomed large, India’s spirited fightback kept them in contention. However, they undoubtedly would have preferred if Kohli had seen the day through. With much at stake, the forthcoming sessions promise intense cricket, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.