Team India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin played a pivotal role in the first Test against New Zealand at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru by dismissing Devon Conway for 91 runs. The left-hander fell victim to Ashwin’s clever bowling tactics in the 40th over of the innings when he attempted a reverse sweep and missed the ball, resulting in his stumps being shattered. Despite missing out on a well-deserved century, Conway had earlier showcased his prowess by hitting Ashwin for a six to reach his half-century off just 54 deliveries.
As the day progressed, New Zealand managed to build a substantial lead of 134 runs by the end of day two, with Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell holding strong at the crease. The Kiwi batsmen, including Will Young, contributed significantly to the lead, capitalizing on the Indian bowling attack.
The day started with Rohit Sharma winning the toss and opting to bat first, but the Indian batting lineup collapsed dramatically, getting bowled out for a mere 46 runs. This dismal performance marked India’s lowest Test total at home, with only Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant managing to reach double figures. The New Zealand bowlers, led by Matt Henry, wreaked havoc on the Indian batsmen, with several key players, including Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja, getting dismissed for ducks.
With a sizeable lead in hand, New Zealand will aim to extend their advantage by batting through day three in Bengaluru. On the other hand, India will rely on their bowling unit to stage a comeback and restrict the Kiwis from further increasing their lead. Coming off a 2-0 series win against Bangladesh, Rohit Sharma and his team will look to bounce back strongly in the remainder of the Test match.
The match poised on a knife’s edge, with both teams eager to seize control and assert their dominance. As the battle intensifies, cricket fans can expect an enthralling contest between two formidable sides vying for supremacy on the field.
