India Fight Back After Low First Innings Against New Zealand

India 46 & 231-3 (Sarfaraz 70no) v New Zealand 402 (Ravindra 134)
Day 3: Stumps, Bengaluru – India trail by 125 runs

India mounted a determined fightback on day three of the first Test against New Zealand after being bowled out for just 46 in their first innings.

By the close of play in Bengaluru, India reached 231-3, trailing by 125 runs, thanks to resilient knocks by Sarfaraz Khan and Virat Kohli.

Sarfaraz and Kohli Lead India’s Recovery

Sarfaraz Khan ended the day unbeaten on 70, playing a crucial role in India’s recovery. His 136-run partnership with Virat Kohli for the third wicket was a turning point. Kohli, who matched Sarfaraz’s efforts with a well-constructed 70, was dismissed with the final ball of the day, just as India appeared to be back in the contest.

India’s innings started solidly with captain Rohit Sharma hitting 52, while opener Yashasvi Jaiswal contributed 35. However, both were dismissed in quick succession by New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel, leaving the middle order to rebuild the innings. Despite the setbacks, India showed resilience after a disastrous first innings.

New Zealand Dominates First Innings

Earlier, New Zealand posted an imposing 402 in their first innings, taking a 356-run lead. Rachin Ravindra was the standout performer for the Black Caps, scoring a brilliant 134, supported by Tim Southee’s aggressive 65. Ravindra’s knock, which included 13 fours and four sixes, anchored New Zealand’s innings and ensured they posted a competitive total.

Indian spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav were the best bowlers for the hosts, each taking three wickets. However, their efforts couldn’t prevent New Zealand from building a significant first-innings lead.

Injury Woes for India

India’s wicketkeeper, Rishabh Pant, was absent from the field after suffering a knee injury on day two. The injury is of particular concern as it involves the same knee Pant injured in a serious car accident in December 2022, which sidelined him for over a year.

India’s first-innings collapse, where they managed just 46 runs, was their third-lowest score in Test history and their lowest at home. With the first day of the match washed out, the Indian team will be looking to build on their day-three fightback and close the gap as they head into the final stages of the match.