Bengaluru: In a shocking performance, India’s batting lineup crumbled to just 46 runs on the second day of the Test match against New Zealand. This dismal display marks India’s lowest-ever score on home soil and the third-lowest Test total in their history. The visitors, led by their fast bowlers, demolished the Indian batting order within a few hours, leaving fans stunned.
Rain-Interrupted Day Ends with India in Tatters
The match resumed after rain delays disrupted play, but the conditions played perfectly into the hands of New Zealand’s seamers. Skipper Rohit Sharma opted to bat first, a decision that backfired as India lost wickets quickly. The Kiwis made full use of the overcast conditions, dismantling India’s top order within the first hour.
- Rohit Sharma managed just 2 runs before being dismissed by Tim Southee.
- Virat Kohli failed to open his account, falling for a duck to young pacer William O’Rourke.
- Sarfaraz Khan, KL Rahul, and Ravindra Jadeja also failed to score, leaving India’s hopes shattered.
Pant’s 20 Runs the Only Highlight
Amidst the collapse, Rishabh Pant was the lone warrior, scoring 20 runs off 49 balls with two boundaries. Yashasvi Jaiswal was the only other batter to reach double digits, contributing 13 runs. However, the rest of the lineup failed to offer any resistance, with five batsmen—including veterans like Kohli, Jadeja, and Ashwin—falling without scoring.
New Zealand’s Pacers Dominate
New Zealand used only three bowlers in the innings, all of whom were fast bowlers. Matt Henry led the charge with impressive figures of 5/15, while William O’Rourke claimed 4/22. Their relentless attack left India with no answers, setting the stage for a commanding position in the Test.
India’s Top 10 Lowest Scores in Test Cricket
India’s 46-run collapse now ranks among their most humiliating performances. Here’s a look at their lowest totals in Test history:
- 36 vs Australia (Adelaide, 2020)
- 42 vs England (Lords, 1974)
- 46 vs New Zealand (Bengaluru, 2024)
- 58 vs Australia (Brisbane, 1947)
- 66 vs South Africa (Durban, 1996)
India’s fans will hope for a better performance in the second innings, but this display has already left a dent in their confidence. The collapse also raises questions about the team’s preparation and batting approach in challenging conditions.
