The ongoing Test match between India and New Zealand in Bengaluru has taken several unexpected turns. After New Zealand took a commanding lead of 356 runs in the first innings, India found themselves under pressure. However, Sarfaraz Khan’s brilliant century has turned the tide in India’s favor. But there’s a twist: the rain in Bengaluru may spoil India’s resurgence and, instead, could help New Zealand secure a draw.
India’s Counterattack Led by Sarfaraz Khan
Team India came out swinging in their second innings after being placed in a difficult position. New Zealand’s first innings lead of 356 runs seemed daunting, and most teams would have struggled to recover. But India, showing determination, fought back thanks to some incredible batting by Sarfaraz Khan and Rishabh Pant.
Sarfaraz Khan, playing one of the most important innings of his career, scored his maiden Test century, steadying India’s innings. His partnership with Rishabh Pant, who also completed a half-century, has given India a fighting chance to take control of the match. India is now just 12 runs away from overcoming New Zealand’s lead with seven wickets in hand, and they seem poised to set a challenging target for New Zealand.
Rain in Bengaluru Could Benefit New Zealand
While India is now on the front foot, the weather might not be on their side. Rain has already interrupted play on Day 4, and the forecast suggests more rain on Day 5. According to weather reports, Bengaluru is expected to witness intermittent showers, and if the rain continues, it could lead to a significant loss of playing time.
For India, time is now a critical factor. If more rain washes out sessions, India may not have enough time to build a substantial lead and force New Zealand to bat in challenging conditions. The more time lost, the more difficult it will be for India to turn their strong position into a victory.
New Zealand Could Welcome the Rain
New Zealand, on the other hand, would welcome the rain. Historically, New Zealand has not lost a match after taking a lead of 200+ runs in the first innings. Out of 58 instances where they have secured such a lead, they’ve won 44 and drawn 14. This impeccable record puts India in a tough spot, as New Zealand has managed to hold onto results after gaining a lead of this size.
For New Zealand, a draw would be a favorable outcome, especially given the way India has fought back. The rain, therefore, is no longer a hindrance for New Zealand but a potential blessing. If the game doesn’t resume or if time runs out, New Zealand can walk away with a draw, preserving their unbeaten record in such situations.
Bengaluru Weather: A Major Player in the Game
The weather forecast for Bengaluru over the next day is not promising. According to Weather.com, there is a 90% chance of rain on Day 5, with the skies expected to be cloudy throughout the day. Rain showers are expected to hit the city in the afternoon, and this could mean further delays in play.
With limited time left in the match, a full day’s play is necessary for India to have a chance of setting a target and bowling out New Zealand in the fourth innings. However, if rain continues to disrupt proceedings, the match could end in a draw, much to New Zealand’s relief.
Sarfaraz Khan’s Brilliant Knock Adds Drama to the Test
Despite the looming threat of rain, Sarfaraz Khan’s performance has been a major highlight of the match. His century, coming at a crucial time for India, has put New Zealand under pressure. Partnering with Rishabh Pant, Sarfaraz has shown tremendous maturity and skill, and his knock will be remembered as a game-changing effort, even if the match ends in a draw.
India now finds themselves in a rare position where they are back in the game but are battling against both New Zealand and the weather. With the rain forecast remaining unfavorable, India will need to hope for clear skies if they want a shot at victory.
