In a tense situation at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, India finds itself trailing New Zealand in the first match of the three-match Test series. After a shaky start, India was bowled out for just 46 runs in their first innings. In response, New Zealand posted a commanding total of 402 runs. As the third day ended, India had reached 231/3, still 125 runs behind.
Sarfaraz Khan, unbeaten on 70, has been one of India’s shining lights in this innings. His crucial partnership with Virat Kohli, which added 136 runs for the third wicket, gave India hope. Unfortunately, Kohli was dismissed on the last ball of the day, falling for 70 to New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips.
With two days remaining, the pressure is on India’s remaining batsmen to either save or turn the match around. India will rely on Sarfaraz to build on his solid start and convert his half-century into a big score on day four.
Key Players Expected to Lead India’s Fightback
- Sarfaraz Khan – Already well-set at the crease with 70 runs, Sarfaraz will be pivotal in leading India’s comeback. His ability to bat with resilience and push India closer to New Zealand’s total could decide the match.
- KL Rahul – Rahul, one of India’s dependable batsmen, will be key as India looks to build momentum on the fourth day. His calm approach and ability to hold the innings together will be essential.
- Ravindra Jadeja – Known for his all-round abilities, Jadeja will play a crucial role, especially if India aims to mount a strong counterattack. His aggressive batting and ability to stay at the crease will be vital in shifting the match’s momentum.
- Ravichandran Ashwin – Ashwin’s batting capabilities lower down the order have often been India’s safety net. His presence at the crease could help India extend their innings and reduce the deficit further.
With Rishabh Pant nursing an injury after being struck on the left knee on day two, his participation is uncertain. Pant did not take the field on the third day, and Dhruv Jurel took over wicketkeeping duties. If Pant is fit to bat, his explosive style could help India take control of the match.
Weather Could Play a Decisive Role
As India fights to stay in the contest, weather could turn out to be a key factor. According to forecasts, there is a 25% chance of rain on October 19, and this increases to 40% on the fifth and final day. If rain disrupts play, India could potentially escape with a draw.
Team Lineups
India’s Playing XI
- Rohit Sharma (captain)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Virat Kohli
- KL Rahul
- Sarfaraz Khan
- Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Ravichandran Ashwin
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
New Zealand’s Playing XI
- Tom Latham (captain)
- Devon Conway
- Will Young
- Rachin Ravindra
- Daryl Mitchell
- Tom Blundell (wicketkeeper)
- Glenn Phillips
- Matt Henry
- Tim Southee
- Ajaz Patel
- William O’Rourke
