Amidst a fervent atmosphere at the Bengaluru Test, New Zealand registered a remarkable eight-wicket win over India, marking their first Test win on Indian soil since 1988. Reflecting on this significant triumph, New Zealand’s stand-in captain Tom Latham humorously remarked, “It was extremely difficult,” acknowledging the arduous game following their compelling performance in the opening Test. After bowling India out for a startling 46 in their first innings, the Kiwis had to navigate an intricate passage of play where India managed to bounce back, only for New Zealand to tilt the balance in their favor eventually.

“This victory is monumental for us, considering the number of teams over the years that have come here trying to win. It’s been 36 years since we last tasted victory in India, so standing here today is remarkably special,” Latham shared, with palpable pride. He credited the commendable work by both the bowlers and batsmen throughout the match for setting the stage for this triumph. “Every little contribution in both innings with the ball was crucial. Then, of course, our batsmen delivered, and it feels incredibly rewarding for this group.”

Latham was particularly laudatory of the pivotal partnership between Rachin Ravindra and Tim Southee, which amounted to a 137-run stand for the eighth wicket. This partnership was instrumental in enhancing New Zealand’s first innings, providing them a substantial edge. “The game could have leaned either way when Tim and Rachin took the mantle. In the context of the match, their partnership was immense for us. Had someone told us beforehand that we’d be chasing just 100 on day five, I would’ve happily accepted that outcome,” Latham said with a smile.

Rachin Ravindra, a rising star in New Zealand cricket, was deservedly named Man of the Match following his impressive scores of 134 and an unbeaten 39. His composure was particularly noted by Latham, who commented, “His approach during the game was essential for us. Forming such an extraordinary 137-run partnership with a number nine batsman is nothing short of amazing. His calm demeanor on the field, even when the pressure mounted, showcased his maturity beyond his years, especially for someone playing only his ninth or tenth Test. We’ve witnessed his talent over the past year, and it’s exciting to have him on our side.

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The victory narrative is incomplete without mentioning the pitch conditions that initially set a favorable scenario for New Zealand. Following Rohit Sharma’s decision to bat first on a pitch well-suited for seamers, New Zealand found themselves in an advantageous position. Persistent rain had kept the pitch under covers, leading to prodigious movement that New Zealand’s seamers exploited to skittle India out for their lowest-ever home total. Latham, however, acknowledged the element of chance that played into the situation. “We were considering batting first as well. Sometimes, planning falls on the fortuitous side, and this time it worked for us. The conditions probably lacked adequate preparation due to the rain, which favored us eventually,” Latham observed.

As the pitch began to deteriorate over the course of the match, Latham shared insights into their strategic considerations, explaining, “The decision weighed down to considering which scenario would be more challenging, day one or day five. Watching Jadeja get one out of the footmarks hit Rachin in the head, you could see the pitch was breaking down. The seamers sensed the chances when cracks emerged and made the most of it.”

Despite the seemingly straightforward target of 107 set for New Zealand, it wasn’t devoid of its predicaments. India’s batting resurgence in the second innings required deft handling from New Zealand’s seamers to wrest back control. These efforts didn’t go unnoticed by Latham, who praised his bowlers, “India, undoubtedly, has a potent batting lineup, making it crucial for us to maintain our focus and seize crucial moments. Tim Southee, Matt Henry, and Will O’ Rourke’s efforts with the new ball were pivotal, and I’m glad we managed to restrain India from setting a larger target.”

This victory was achieved without New Zealand’s key batsman Kane Williamson, absent due to injury. Will Young, stepping into Williamson’s role, showcased his potential by contributing an unbeaten 48 during their chase, offering Latham a selection dilemma, albeit a pleasant one, for upcoming games. As the team looks forward to the next Test starting on the 24th of October, Latham remains hopeful yet uncertain about Williamson’s availability, stating, “We haven’t received any updates as yet. Obviously, having someone of Kane’s calibre available would be fantastic, but we will have to wait and see over the next couple of days.”

By IPL Agent

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