With a challenging second day behind them, Team India must step up in key areas to make a comeback against New Zealand in the ongoing Bengaluru Test.
The Bengaluru Test between India and New Zealand hasn’t started on a positive note for Team India. After a rain-washed first day, the Indian team struggled in their first innings, posting a low score of just 46 runs. New Zealand, on the other hand, ended the day strong, scoring 180 for 3 and securing a 134-run lead. Despite this deficit, there’s still hope for Team India to stage a comeback on Day 3. To do so, they’ll need to focus on five essential strategies that could help them reclaim control of the match.
1. Limit New Zealand’s Lead Early on Day 3
To keep their chances alive, Team India must quickly dismiss New Zealand’s remaining batsmen and keep the lead manageable. At present, the Kiwis have a 134-run advantage, and if Team India can restrict their total lead to under 200, the match can still be balanced. India’s bowlers need to bring their A-game in the morning session to prevent New Zealand from running away with a larger lead. An early breakthrough could set the tone for the rest of the day, giving India a solid platform to build on.
2. Build a Solid Score in the Second Innings
In their second innings, Team India will need to be more focused and consistent. A strong batting performance is crucial, especially after their first-innings collapse. This time, the Indian batsmen should prioritize spending time at the crease, assessing the pitch conditions, and avoiding reckless shots. By building partnerships and setting a respectable total, they can put New Zealand under pressure in the final innings. With a high enough score, India’s bowlers could have something to defend and the chance to turn the match in their favor.
3. Learn from Past Mistakes and Adapt
Captain Rohit Sharma acknowledged that misjudging the pitch’s behavior was a costly mistake in the first innings. With lessons learned, Team India must adjust their approach for the second innings. Instead of attacking early, the batsmen should spend time gauging the pitch and choosing their shots wisely. The top-order batsmen, in particular, need to dig in and build a strong foundation. By adapting to the pitch’s conditions and playing with patience, India can avoid the mistakes that cost them in the first innings.
4. Utilize Spin to Their Advantage
The pitch at Chinnaswamy Stadium is known for assisting spinners, which is why India has included Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav in their squad. Despite rain affecting the pitch, there is still potential for spin. Ashwin, Jadeja, and Kuldeep are well-acquainted with Indian pitches and can exploit any turn available to put pressure on New Zealand. By tightening their bowling and using variations, the spin trio can play a crucial role in restricting New Zealand’s batting and setting up an opportunity for India’s comeback.
5. Indian Pacers Need to Step Up
New Zealand’s fast bowlers were highly effective on Day 2, with Matt Henry and William O’Rourke dismantling the Indian batting lineup. Now, it’s time for India’s pacers, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Siraj, to show their mettle. While the pitch may favor spinners, Bumrah and Siraj need to use their pace and bounce to unsettle New Zealand’s batsmen. By maintaining disciplined line and length, they can create pressure and help restrict New Zealand’s lead, giving India a fighting chance to set up a competitive chase.
The Road Ahead for Team India
Day 3 of the Bengaluru Test will be crucial in determining India’s prospects in the match. If the Indian bowlers can minimize New Zealand’s lead, they will have a solid foundation for the second innings. In turn, a strong batting display from India’s top order could shift the momentum, allowing the hosts to set a challenging target for the Kiwis. By focusing on these five strategies, Team India can keep themselves in the game and make a spirited comeback in this critical Test match.
