In a remarkable display of composure and resilience, New Zealand secured a commanding eight-wicket victory over India on the fifth day of the opening Test in Bengaluru, achieving a target of 107 runs with an unbeaten 75-run partnership between Will Young and Rachin Ravindra. Despite a challenging pitch and early setbacks, the visitors exhibited determination and skill to overcome the home side’s efforts, marking their first Test win in India in 36 years.
The match began intensely, as New Zealand’s captain Tom Latham was dismissed for a duck in the very first over by India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who bowled with exceptional accuracy and pace to deliver figures of 2-29. Devon Conway also struggled against Bumrah’s fiery spell, managing just 17 runs from 39 balls before succumbing to the pressure. However, it was Young and Ravindra who stood firm, displaying immense focus and technique to thwart India’s hopes of a dramatic comeback. Young’s composed 48* and Ravindra’s assured 39* ensured that New Zealand swiftly chased down the modest target without further loss.
India’s bowling attack seemed ineffective once Bumrah’s initial impact dwindled. The absence of a third pacer was sorely felt as the spinners found little purchase on a docile pitch. Only the rough patches outside the left-hander’s off-stump occasionally posed a threat, yet it was insufficient to derail the concentrated efforts of Young and Ravindra.
While the imbalance in their bowling attack will be a discussion point for India, so too will Rohit Sharma’s decision to bat on the second day under cloudy skies and on a damp pitch, conditions expertly exploited by New Zealand’s Matt Henry and William O’Rourke. The duo wreaked havoc, claiming nine wickets between them and skittling India out for a mere 46 runs. This dismal performance was characterized by a mix of excellent deliveries and a series of poor shot selections from India’s batsmen, who failed to apply themselves adequately.
New Zealand’s dominance was solidified by an outstanding display in their first innings, largely due to Conway’s aggressive 91 that set the pace. Though he faltered in the second innings, his initial defiance provided the platform for New Zealand’s ascendancy.
. Following Conway’s lead, Ravindra shone with a magnificent second innings century (134), supported by a brilliant 65 from Tim Southee. Together, they mounted a crucial 137-run partnership that deprived India of any solid footing in the match.
Despite a significant first-innings lead of 356 runs, the largest margin that left India battling against inevitability, the home team mounted a commendable second-innings fightback. Sarfaraz Khan led the charge with a stellar 150, supported ably by Rishabh Pant’s spirited 99 and a solid 70 from Virat Kohli. Rohit Sharma contributed with a brisk 52, setting an aggressive tone early on. These performances reignited Indian hopes for a turnaround, driving their total to 408/3, with an imposing lead of 52 runs.
Just when the tide seemed to be turning, New Zealand seized the opportunity presented by the second new ball. Their pacers rose to the occasion once again, with Southee dismantling the Sarfaraz-Pant partnership and both O’Rourke and Henry cleaning up India’s order with aplomb, the latter pair sharing six scalps to wrap up the innings swiftly.
Ultimately, India’s last seven wickets fell for just 54 runs, thereby nullifying their promising position. It was indeed fitting that Ravindra was at the crease when New Zealand clinched this historic victory, underscoring his vital contribution throughout the game. While India grapples with the outcome of their tactical and selection choices, New Zealand will celebrate the exceptional performances of O’Rourke and Henry, whose spells on Indian soil proved match-winning.
In conclusion, this Test not only marked a potential turning point for both teams but also highlighted the strategic depth and resilience inherent in New Zealand’s cricket—capabilities that were instrumental in breaking India’s 36-year stronghold. The triumph is a testament to New Zealand’s grit and innovative strategies, setting an exciting tone for the series ahead.