India Struggles in Overcast Conditions Against New Zealand in Bengaluru Test

In a challenging start to the first Test match between India and New Zealand, held in Bengaluru, the Indian cricket team found themselves in a precarious position after choosing to bat first in overcast weather conditions. After a washout on the opening day, the toss occurred on Thursday with Indian captain Rohit Sharma electing to bat. However, the decision quickly appeared to be a miscalculation.

In the brief period of 12.4 overs bowled before play was interrupted by rain, the Indian team lost three crucial wickets for a mere 13 runs. Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was left stranded at the crease with a score of 8 not out, having faced 37 balls, as he witnessed his fellow batsmen fall in quick succession at the other end.

The first casualty for India was captain Rohit Sharma, who was bowled out by New Zealand’s Tim Southee for just 2 runs. Following him to the pavilion was star batsman Virat Kohli, who failed to score, losing his wicket to William O'Rourke after a 9-ball innings.

Sarfaraz Khan was the third Indian batter to be dismissed, caught brilliantly by Devon Conway at extra cover. Khan’s mistimed drive against a delivery from New Zealand’s Matt Henry led to a spectacular full-length diving catch by Conway, which set India back further at 10 for 3.

This early collapse marked a rarity for India, as it was only the third occurrence since 1990 that the team had lost three wickets for 10 runs or less at home, with the last such instance happening in 2010. When play was halted due to inclement weather, Rishabh Pant was at the crease on 3 not out, partnering Jaiswal.