First Test, Bengaluru (Day Four of Five)
India 46 all out: Henry 5-15, O’Rourke 4-22
India 462: Sarfaraz 150, Pant 99
New Zealand 402: Ravindra 134, Conway 91
New Zealand 0-0 (target 107)
New Zealand are on the verge of achieving their first Test victory in India since 1988, needing just 107 runs on the final day of the Bengaluru Test to secure a historic win.
After India were bowled out for 462 in their second innings, bad light halted New Zealand’s chase just four balls in, leaving all eyes on the fifth day. India, who were bundled out for a shocking 46 runs in their first innings, staged a strong comeback through Sarfaraz Khan’s 150 and Rishabh Pant’s gutsy 99, with Pant battling a knee injury sustained on day two—an aggravation of the same injury from his car accident in 2022.
Despite India’s efforts, the Kiwis’ bowlers, led by Matt Henry (3-102) and Will O’Rourke (3-92), triggered a collapse, with India losing seven wickets for just 54 runs after reaching a commanding position with only three wickets down. The second new ball proved crucial, setting New Zealand a modest target of 107.
Also Read: Bengaluru Weatherwatch: Rain and Thunderstorms Loom Over Final Day as New Zealand Eyes Victory
Will O’Rourke, who claimed a total of seven wickets in the match, acknowledged the challenge but expressed optimism ahead of the final day. “It’s not an easy wicket, but we have a world-class side to face tomorrow. Hopefully, we get a full day’s play and chase down the target,” O’Rourke said.
Sarfaraz Khan remains hopeful that India can still make a match of it.
“If we can strike early and take two or three quick wickets, it could shift the momentum back in our favor.”
The match has already seen plenty of drama, with India’s first innings of 46 being their third-lowest total in Test cricket and their lowest ever at home. Now, New Zealand stand just 107 runs away from breaking a 36-year drought of Test wins on Indian soil, while India will fight to deny them a famous victory.
