India is on the verge of a thrilling finish in the first Test match against New Zealand in Bengaluru. After a rollercoaster match, the hosts are now left defending a target of just 107 runs in the fourth innings. Earlier, India managed to erase New Zealand’s imposing 356-run lead but fell short when it came to building on that momentum.
India’s batting saw a dramatic collapse after the second new ball was taken. From a commanding position of 408/3, they were bowled out for 462, with their last seven wickets falling for just 54 runs. Sarfaraz Khan stood tall with a solid knock of 150, while Rishabh Pant fell heartbreakingly short of a century at 99. The new ball proved to be a turning point, with Matt Henry, William O’Rourke, and Tim Southee tearing through the Indian batting order, sharing seven wickets between them.
Innings Break!#TeamIndia are all out for 462 in the 2nd innings.
New Zealand need 1⃣0⃣7⃣ runs to win in Bengaluru.
---Advertisement---Over to our bowlers 🙌
Scorecard – https://t.co/FS97Llv5uq#INDvNZ | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/js28E5gt9X
— BCCI (@BCCI) October 19, 2024
Defending a Historic Low Target
India now faces a daunting task of defending just 107 runs. However, they have a history of defending low totals in Test cricket. In fact, the lowest total they have successfully defended in the fourth innings is exactly 107, which they achieved against Australia in Mumbai back in 2004. The Indian bowlers will be hoping to replicate that feat.
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India’s Top Five Lowest Defended Totals in Tests:
- 107 runs – Against Australia in Mumbai (2004)
- 143 runs – Against Australia in Melbourne (1981)
- 170 runs – Against South Africa in Ahmedabad (1996)
- 188 runs – Against New Zealand in Mumbai (1969)
- 188 runs – Against Australia in Bengaluru (2017)
A Rough Start for India
India’s first innings was a disaster, as they were bundled out for a meager 46 runs, marking their lowest-ever total at home. Rishabh Pant was the only batsman to put up a fight with 20 runs, while Yashasvi Jaiswal chipped in with 13. None of the other batsmen reached double digits, as the New Zealand pacers dominated the conditions.
New Zealand’s Commanding First Innings
New Zealand responded strongly, amassing 402 runs in their first innings, with Rachin Ravindra scoring a fine 134 and Tim Southee contributing a crucial 65. Their 137-run partnership for the eighth wicket was the backbone of New Zealand’s innings, giving them a commanding lead.
India’s bowlers will now need to produce a magical performance if they are to pull off an unlikely victory and make history in Bengaluru.
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