In a remarkable finish, New Zealand emerged victorious in their opening Test match against India held in Bengaluru, pulling off an impressive eight-wicket win on the fifth day. This accomplishment was highlighted by a formidable unbeaten stand of 75 runs from Will Young, contributing 48*, and Rachin Ravindra, providing crucial support with his 39*. Despite the tricky pitch conditions and a modest target of 107, the Kiwi batsmen showcased composure and skill to secure the win.
The day began on a dramatic note for the visitors when their captain, Tom Latham, fell for a duck in the very first over, succumbing to a lethal delivery from India’s pace spearhead, Jasprit Bumrah, who bowled a spirited spell claiming figures of 2-29. Devon Conway, who took 39 balls to score 17 runs in a labored innings, was also lured into a trap by Bumrah, further denting New Zealand’s chase. Yet, despite the initial setbacks instilled by the formidable Bumrah, Young and Ravindra turned the tables with impressive finesse and resilience.
Young was particularly effective against the fresh new-ball attack, displaying confidence and precision. At the other end, Ravindra, building on his promising first innings performance, infused early momentum into New Zealand’s innings by striking a couple of boundaries in his first three balls. Their partnership was instrumental in guiding the team effortlessly past the finishing line. The Indian bowling, suffering from the absence of a third seamer, struggled to maintain pressure, and on a pitch that offered little to the spin department, it was New Zealand’s day to claim.
In retrospect, India’s decision-making will undoubtedly come under scrutiny, especially skipper Rohit Sharma’s choice to bat after winning the toss on the second day. Their innings crumbled for a meager 46, undone by New Zealand’s bowlers, Matt Henry (5-15) and William O’Rourke (4-22), who made the most of the conducive overcast conditions and damp pitch. India’s batting lacked the requisite application, as they succumbed not just to well-executed deliveries but also threw away wickets in moments of poor judgment, leaving New Zealand in the driver’s seat.
Devon Conway’s aggressive 91-run knock in New Zealand’s first innings laid a solid foundation despite a few initial hiccups.
. Alongside him, credit must be given to Ravindra’s exceptional 134-run innings that dismantled India’s hopes after the home side had clawed back to reduce New Zealand to 233/7 with an astute bowling display. Partnering with Tim Southee, Ravindra constructed a crucial 137-run partnership that all but extinguished India’s comeback chances, serving as a pivotal segment of this Test match.
Even with a colossal 356-run lead in the first innings, India showcased resilience in their second essay. A spectacular 150 from Sarfaraz Khan, with support from Rishabh Pant and Virat Kohli’s significant scores of 99 and 70 respectively, saw India post a fighting total of 462. Early aggression from Rohit Sharma with a quick half-century ignited India’s innings. A notable 136-run partnership between Kohli and Sarfaraz, followed by a 177-run stand between Pant and Sarfaraz, pushed India into a fighting lead, with score lines reading 408/3 and India leading by 52.
However, New Zealand bowlers once again rose to the occasion with the second new ball. Here, Tim Southee struck first, clean-bowling Sarfaraz. O’Rourke and Henry, maintaining their stellar form, dealt decisive blows to the Indian middle and lower order, leading to the fall of the last seven wickets for a mere 54 runs, effectively sealing New Zealand’s path to victory.
For New Zealand, this victory marks a historic achievement – their first Test win in India after a 36-year wait. Rachin Ravindra’s all-around excellence and the commanding performances from O’Rourke and Henry were central to this monumental win. India, though left to rue strategic mishaps and unseized opportunities, showcased enough spirit to hint at an exciting series. The forthcoming matches offer a chance at redemption as both sides continue their battle for Test glory.