Bengaluru– In a remarkable display of batting prowess, New Zealand was bowled out for 402 runs in their first innings, establishing a commanding 356-run lead against India on the third day of the opening Test match at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Friday. Rachin Ravindra was the star of the innings, scoring a stunning 134 runs off just 157 balls.
His innings was adorned with 13 boundaries and four sixes, showcasing a blend of aggression and finesse. Additionally, Tim Southee contributed significantly to the score with a well-fought 65, forming a crucial partnership of 137 runs for the eighth wicket alongside Ravindra. This resilient effort came as a stark contrast to India's abysmal first innings total of just 46 runs. In response to New Zealand's formidable total, India's bowlers showed some fight, with Ravindra Jadeja leading the charge by claiming three wickets for 72 runs.
Kuldeep Yadav also impressed, securing three wickets for 99 runs, while Mohammed Siraj added two to his tally, finishing with figures of 2/84. However, their efforts were overshadowed by the New Zealand batting lineup, which demonstrated a clinical approach at the crease.
Brief Scores: - India 1st Innings: 46 all out in 31.2 overs - New Zealand 1st Innings: 402 all out in 91.3 overs
Top Performers: Devon Conway 91, Rachin Ravindra 134, Tim Southee 65; Mohammed Siraj 2/84, Kuldeep Yadav 3/99, Ravindra Jadeja 3/72.
As the match progresses, India will need to regroup and devise a strategy to tackle the colossal deficit, while New Zealand will look to capitalize on their commanding lead to secure victory in this Test match.