India’s Unexpected Collapse Against New Zealand in Bengaluru Test

India faced a significant setback in their first Test match against New Zealand in Bengaluru as they were dismissed for a mere 46 runs on the second day of play, leaving fans and analysts in disbelief. The visitors, in contrast, ended the day strongly at 180 for 3, securing a substantial lead of 134 runs.

Rohit Sharma, the Indian captain, took responsibility for a questionable decision at the toss. After choosing to bat, and despite having three spinners in the XI, the decision backfired as rain left the pitch under covers for two days, resulting in conditions that favored fast bowlers. “You see and you try and make the judgment. Sometimes you make the right call, sometimes you don’t,” Rohit stated. With the team’s score of 46 being one of their lowest, Rohit admitted, “As a captain, it definitely hurts to see that number.”

The Indian team fielded R. Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav as their spin options but omitted fast bowler Akash Deep from the lineup. Rohit explained the rationale, noting the pitch’s bare appearance and past successes with Kuldeep on flat surfaces. However, the decision misfired. “Clearly a misjudgement of the pitch,” Rohit conceded.

In a surprising move, Virat Kohli batted at number three for the first time since 2016, due to Shubman Gill‘s unavailability. Unfortunately, Kohli’s innings ended swiftly as he was dismissed for a 12-ball duck, increasing scrutiny over the team’s lineup strategy. Rohit explained, “The experienced players are the ones who have to take that extra responsibility and this time it was Virat.”

New Zealand took full advantage of India’s struggles. The day concluded with openers Devon Conway and Tom Latham contributing to the visitors’ total before Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell continued the momentum. Matt Henry led the New Zealand bowling attack with a five-wicket haul, supported by Will O'Rourke, who claimed four wickets.

Despite the grim situation, Rohit maintained a positive outlook during the post-match press conference, expressing determination to keep New Zealand’s lead in check. “We got to bat really big in the second and try and see if we can make a game out of that,” he asserted.

The challenge remains steep for India as they aim to recover from a challenging position, and the match continues with New Zealand in a commanding lead.