Rachin Ravindra’s Century Bolsters New Zealand’s Lead Against India in First Test

In the ongoing first Test match between India and New Zealand at Bengaluru, Rachin Ravindra‘s unbeaten century has provided a robust platform for the visitors. Ravindra scored an outstanding 104 not out, helping New Zealand reach a score of 345 for 7 by lunch on Day 3, subsequently attaining a commanding 299-run lead over India.

Ravindra’s performance included 11 boundaries and two sixes in a debut that has drawn significant attention, particularly given that his family hails from the city of Bengaluru. Partnering with Tim Southee, who is currently not out at 49, Ravindra has been at the heart of a crucial unbroken eighth-wicket partnership that has added 112 runs to New Zealand’s total.

The Kiwi innings resumed on Day 3 from an overnight score of 180/3. Despite the loss of some early wickets in the morning session, including a collapse prompted by Indian spinner Ravindra Jadeja who captured three wickets and pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah who took another, Ravindra’s resolute batting held the innings together.

Earlier on Day 2, India faced a batting debacle as they were dismissed for a paltry 46 runs, with New Zealand bowlers Matt Henry and William O'Rourke taking advantage of favorable bowling conditions. This score ranks as India’s lowest in a home Test match, surpassing their previous lowest of 75 against West Indies in 1987.

Compounding India’s woes is the absence of wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant from the field on Day 3 due to a knee injury. BCCI confirmed that “Mr Rishabh Pant will not keep wickets on Day 3. The BCCI Medical Team is monitoring his progress.” Pant’s injury is a concern, given his recent recovery from a serious car accident in 2022 which sidelined him for over a year.

As the afternoon session unfolds, New Zealand seeks to further consolidate their lead, while India will aim to exploit the second new ball they have taken at the start of the session, with hope resting on their spearhead Jasprit Bumrah to break the prevailing partnership and limit the visitors’ lead.