New Zealand, in a display of sheer determination and perseverance, crushed India in the first test of the ongoing Test Series in India. Let us uncover the major moments in the match that were pivotal for New Zealand’s success.
1st Innings:
Bowling:
In an outstanding display of lethal fast bowling, New Zealand could strike deep into India’s star-studded batting lineup. Matt Henry, Tim Southee and Will O’Rourke wreaked havoc within India’s camp. Together they grabbed ten wickets among themselves. Matt Henry picked up 5 wickets while O’Rourke picked four wickets including the prize wicket of Virat Kohli. Except Rishabh Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal none of the Indian batsmen scored in double digits. As many as five batsmen were dismissed in a duck.
Batting:
New Zealand’s batting in the first innings was nothing short of a strong display of resilience and character. Posting a healthy opening partnership of 67 runs, it was evident that New Zealand would not cower in front of India’s seam and spin attack. Opener Devon Conway scored a breezy 91 runs while Rachin Ravindra, the batting sensation slammed a magnificent century. Unlike India’s bottom order, Tim Southee, the number 9 batter scored a power-packed 65 runs off 73 deliveries. Overall Team contributions propelled New Zealand’s lead to 356 runs.
2nd Innings:
Bowling:
New Zealand’s bowling in the 2nd innings suffered early set-backs as the Indian batsmen were aggressive from the word go. The opening partnership lasted 72 runs. Captain Rohit Sharma scored 53 runs. The Indian innings were fortified by outstanding knocks from Virak Kohli, Sarfaraz Khan and Rishabh Pant. Sarfaraz Khan slammed his maiden test century and went on to score 150 runs. Rishabh Pant, unfortunately, missed out on a century getting bowled out by Will O’Rourke at 99.
However, New Zealand bowlers once again gathered the steam and were able to dismiss five Indian batsmen within 29 runs. Once again Matt Henry and Will O’Rourke were the pick of the bowlers. Indian batters were all out at 462.
Batting:
New Zealand’s chase in the second innings was characterized by grit and determination. They were able to encounter a hostile seam bowling attack by Jasprit Bumrah. Even after losing Tom Latham at a score of zero, they were able to collect their nerves and chased the relatively smaller target of 107 runs within the 28th over. Will Young and Rachin Ravindra made sure New Zealand touched the finishing line with ease.
With this win, New Zealand ended a 36-year wait to taste success in India. This is their first test victory on Indian soil since John Wright’s team walked over an Indian outfit and defeated them by 136 runs in 1988.
New Zealand cricket has taken a whole new turn in another platform, where their women’s team scripted history by outclassing South Africa to clinch the ICC T20 Women’s Cricket World Cup Title.
A MASSIVE 24 hours for New Zealand 🔥#T20WorldCup #INDvNZ #WTC25 pic.twitter.com/2yhFgBQ3YS
— ICC (@ICC) October 21, 2024
