Bengaluru: India are considered to be invincible at home. The results speak for themselves.
In 47 Tests played in this country — prior to the ongoing series against New Zealand – during the last 10 years, India have lost just 4 times and won 36 games.
No one expected India to lose to New Zealand, a team which last managed to win a Test match here in 1988.
Yet, the Chinnaswamy Stadium threw up a major surprise as New Zealand upstaged Rohit Sharma’s men by 8 wickets in the first match of the three-Test series. India did raise visions of a miraculous victory after being shot out for a pathetic 46 in the first innings, but were ultimately beaten by a superior team on the fifth and final day.
India, having blanked Bangladesh 2-0 in their previous series, were banking on another home sweep to strengthen their case for a berth in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.
Hence, this stunning defeat has left the team morally bruised. They have found out the hard way that the Tom Latham-led side — with batters like Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell and pacers like Tim Southee, Matt Henry and Will O’Rourke — can’t be taken lightly.
Despite the Bengaluru defeat, India remain on top of the WTC standings, but two things have happened post this match.
India’s percentage (PCT) has dropped to 68.06, while New Zealand have jumped from sixth to fourth with a win-loss percentage of 44.44.
Check out the latest WTC standings:
Bumrah’s Early Strikes Not Enough
New Zealand, set a target of 107, were rocked in the very first over of the fifth and final day as Jasprit Bumrah trapped skipper Latham leg-before wicket.
Bumrah then sent back the other opener Devon Conway in similar fashion to leave New Zealand on 35/2.
But Will Young (48 not out) and Ravindra (39 not out) guide New Zealand home with a fine unbroken partnership of 75 runs.
The Indian team will have to buck up and regroup with better plans for the remaining Tests at Pune (from October 24) and Mumbai (from November 1), before flying Down Under for a five-match series against Australia.
Brief Scores
India first innings: 46
New Zealand first innings: 402
India second innings: 462
New Zealand second innings: 110/2.
Result: NZ won by 8 wkts.
Man of the Match: Rachin Ravindra (134 & 39*).
2nd Test at Pune from October 24.
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