On a rain-affected day two of the first Test in Bengaluru, India faced a dismal collapse, posting their lowest-ever home total of 46 runs. New Zealand capitalized on the conditions with a strong bowling performance led by Matt Henry (5-15) and William O’Rourke (4-22). The duo combined to bowl out India in just 31.2 overs, giving New Zealand early control of the match. This total ranks as India’s third-lowest in Test history, with previous record lows including 36 against Australia in 2020 and 42 against England in 1974.
The match began after the first day was washed out, with India opting to bat in overcast conditions. However, their decision quickly backfired as Tim Southee bowled captain Rohit Sharma for just 2, and O’Rourke removed Virat Kohli for a duck, leaving the hosts reeling. Rishabh Pant’s score of 20 was the only resistance in a disastrous innings where five Indian batsmen registered ducks.
New Zealand, in contrast, took charge with opener Devon Conway leading the way. Conway, alongside Tom Latham, stitched a 67-run partnership for the first wicket, with Conway reaching his fifty off 54 balls. Though Kuldeep Yadav managed to dismiss Latham, New Zealand ended the day at 82-1, already leading by 36 runs.
India’s hopes now rest on a swift comeback, but with New Zealand in control, the hosts are facing an uphill battle in this Test match.
