India Eyes Victory After Shocking 46-All-Out Collapse
In Bengaluru, India recorded a humiliating low in Test cricket by being bowled out for just 46 runs in their first innings at home. However, in an incredible comeback during the second innings, Rohit Sharma’s side posted 462, surpassing New Zealand’s total of 356. The Kiwis now need 107 runs to win.
New Zealand had earlier set a solid foundation with 402 runs in their first innings. On Friday, India’s top order laid the groundwork for a big score in response. Virat Kohli and Sarfaraz Khan formed a brilliant partnership to keep India in the fight. Kohli was dismissed for 70, narrowly missing out on a century, but Sarfaraz did not disappoint. On Saturday, the young batter notched his maiden Test century, playing a splendid knock of 150 runs off 195 balls, including 18 fours and 3 sixes, before falling to Tim Southee.
After Sarfaraz’s dismissal, Rishabh Pant took charge, dominating the Kiwi bowlers. Unfortunately, Pant was bowled by William O’Rourke for 99, just one run short of a century, despite hitting 9 fours and 5 sixes in his 105-ball innings. The lower-order batters could not offer much resistance, and India’s second innings ended at 462 late on the fourth day.
In New Zealand’s second innings, Matt Henry and William O’Rourke took three wickets each, while Ajaz Patel bagged two.
On Sunday, the final day of the match, victory won’t come easy for New Zealand on the crumbling pitch in Bengaluru, especially against India’s formidable bowling attack.
Comments