Key Highlights of India’s Batting Collapse
- India bowled out for 46 – their lowest Test score at home
- Matt Henry claims 5-15, reaches 100 Test wickets milestone
- Devon Conway’s stellar 91 puts New Zealand in command
- New Zealand leads by 134 runs, standing at 180-3 at stumps
India’s Shocking Batting Collapse
India’s batting lineup collapsed to their third-lowest Test total ever on day two of the first Test in Bengaluru, with just 46 runs in 31.2 overs, in an astonishing showing. After a total washout on the first day, India choose to bat in cloudy circumstances, which led to the collapse.
The performance marked several unwanted records for the hosts:
- Lowest Test score on home soil (previous: 75 vs West Indies, 1987)
- Five batsmen dismissed for ducks, including Virat Kohli
- Only Rishabh Pant reached double figures, scoring 20
New Zealand’s Bowling Masterclass Causes India’s Batting Collapse
Matt Henry and William O’Rourke spearheaded the Kiwi pace attack, which produced a devastating burst of fast bowling. With astounding stats of 5-15, Henry claimed his 100th wicket in a Test match, and O’Rourke finished with a strong 4-22.
Tim Southee removed Rohit Sharma for two, and O’Rourke’s vital blow to eliminate Kohli for a duck furthered the devastation. With great catching to back up the bowling effort, India collapsed to 33-5 and then 34-6 at lunch. The procession went on.
New Zealand’s Strong Reply to India’s Batting Collapse
The visitors capitalized on their bowling success with a commanding batting performance:
- Devon Conway led the charge with a brilliant 91
- Opening partnership of 67 between Conway and Tom Latham
- 75-run stand between Conway and Will Young (33)
- Rachin Ravindra (22) and Daryl Mitchell (14) steady at stumps
Conway’s aggressive approach was particularly noteworthy as he reached his fifty off just 54 balls, including a six off Ravichandran Ashwin. However, his attempt at a reverse sweep against the same bowler eventually led to his dismissal.
Additional Drama Amidst India’s Batting Collapse
There was further action that day when Rishabh Pant had to leave the pitch due to an injury after missing a stumping opportunity. In came Dhruv Jurel as a stand-in wicketkeeper. Due to poor light, the additional session was eventually cancelled, leaving New Zealand in command at 180-3.
Looking Ahead
With a substantial lead of 134 runs and seven wickets in hand, New Zealand finds itself in a commanding position to dictate terms in this first Test of the three-match series. India faces an uphill battle to recover from their batting collapse and will need a significant improvement in their second innings to stay competitive in the match.