The second day of the first test between India and New Zealand at Bengaluru witnessed India collapsing I front of Kiwi fast bowlers.
Matt Henry, W ‘O Rourke and Tim Southee were very effective spearheads for New Zealand as India crumbled to 34 for six at lunch.
It was certainly a seamers’ condition, and New Zealand’s bowlers did not disappoint themselves while troubling the Indians both at the top and in the middle.
The Indian batting lineup could barely get going, with tailenders once again not able to get in against the steady line and length New Zealand bowled.
This backfired big time with Rohit Sharma’s decision to bat first as the top order fell prey early on. New Zealand’s bowling department was the pick of the bunch for their accuracy and getting value out of the overcast conditions.
Tim Southee |
6 |
4 |
8 |
1 |
0 |
36 |
1 |
1.30 |
Matt Henry |
13 |
3 |
15 |
0 |
0 |
55 |
1 |
1.10 |
William O’Rourke |
12 |
2 |
22 |
4 |
1 |
21 |
2 |
1.80 |
Sarfaraz Khan starts on the right note and India fights.
There was a change in India’s playing XI from the last Test, with Sarfaraz Khan replacing Shubman Gill because of an injury and Kuldeep Yadav coming in for fast bowler Akash Deep.
Sarfaraz’s inclusion was expected and needed, but here he was out early, and India was put into deeper trouble.
Fament of his return did not go as well as expected; however, he will have another opportunity to make his mark on the series when Tests come along.
India’s middle order, which comprises its biggest stars, including Virat Kohli and KL Rahul, was also found lacking as New Zealand’s pacers continued to dominate.
Persistent Rain Hampers Play
The last 48 hours it almost rained throughout, and it has been very difficult to continue play.
After persistent showers on Day 1, the umpires called off the match early on Day 2 at 2:30 pm.
Both of the teams have complained of disruption leading to the interruption of preparation, and more rain is expected in the subsequent days, factors that are capable of causing changes in the results of the match.
The second Test will be in Pune starting from October 24th, while the third Test start in Mumbai from the 1st of November.
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References:
IndianExpress.com
TimesofIndia.com