IND vs NZ: India Bowled Out for 46 Runs; Prostrate Before Henry-William Duo
India’s Historic Collapse in Bangalore
In a shocking turn of events, India registered one of its most humiliating days in Test cricket during the 1st match of the three-match series against New Zealand at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore. On October 17, 2024, India collapsed for a mere 46 runs in their first innings, succumbing to the brilliant fast-bowling display by New Zealand’s Matt Henry and debutant William O’Rook.
Indian captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and elected to bat first, but the decision backfired spectacularly as New Zealand’s pace attack tore through the Indian lineup, exposing the frailty of India’s famed batting order. This performance marked India’s lowest-ever total in a Test innings played at home, a record the team and its fans would like to forget.
Did Rohit Misjudge the Pitch?
The decision to bat first by Rohit Sharma is now under intense scrutiny. While the Chinnaswamy pitch had some early movement for the seamers, it wasn’t expected to produce such a catastrophic batting display. Sharma, who has led India through many ups and downs, may have misjudged the conditions, raising questions about the team’s game strategy.
A Record-Setting Collapse
India’s collapse, unfortunately, added them to a dubious list of infamous Test collapses. Five Indian batsmen, including superstar Virat Kohli, were dismissed for ducks. Kohli, who is usually reliable in tough situations, fell to debutant William O’Rook. Alongside Kohli, Sarfaraz Khan, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, and R Ashwin all returned to the pavilion without troubling the scorers.
The entire Indian batting lineup struggled against the seam and swing offered by the New Zealand pacers. In fact, half the team was out for zero, with the highest score coming from Rishabh Pant, who made 20 runs. Yashasvi Jaiswal contributed 13 runs, while captain Rohit Sharma could only manage 2. The collapse echoed India’s notorious 1952 Headingley disaster, where they lost seven wickets without scoring.
Henry and William Dominate
New Zealand’s fast-bowling duo of Matt Henry and debutant William O’Rook shared nine wickets between them, tormenting the Indian batsmen. Henry claimed 5 wickets, cementing his place as one of the most lethal bowlers in contemporary Test cricket. William, making a dream debut, took 4 wickets, including the prized scalp of Virat Kohli. Tim Southee chipped in with one wicket to complete India’s annihilation.
India’s Future in the Series
India’s dismal performance in the first innings sets a grim tone for the rest of the series. With New Zealand already gaining an upper hand, India must bounce back in their second innings to avoid a potential defeat at home. The Indian team, under intense scrutiny from fans and experts alike, needs to reassess their strategy, especially after such a morale-destroying day.
India’s unexpected batting collapse has created an uproar across the cricketing world, and this 1st Test in Bangalore will be remembered for years to come. The focus will now shift to how the team responds under pressure and if Rohit Sharma’s leadership can turn things around.
