New Zealand’s Historic Win Over India After 35 Years on Indian Soil
In an extraordinary turn of events, New Zealand achieved a historic victory over India in the first Test match of the series, winning on Indian soil for the first time in 35 years. The Kiwis defeated India by 8 wickets, securing their long-awaited triumph after a gap that spanned more than three decades. The last time New Zealand won a Test match in India was in 1988, making this an unforgettable moment for the team and their fans.
India Bowled Out for 46 in First Innings
The Indian team, having won the toss and chosen to bat first, struggled against New Zealand’s pace attack. Under overcast conditions, the Indian batting lineup collapsed to a shocking 46 all out, their lowest total in a home Test match. New Zealand’s fast bowlers, led by Matt Henry, dismantled the Indian batting with precision, and five Indian batsmen were dismissed for ducks. Henry took five wickets, while William Orook claimed four, leaving India in tatters.
New Zealand Dominates with 402 Runs in First Innings
In response, New Zealand’s batting lineup fired on all cylinders. Rachin Ravindra, of Indian origin, starred for the visitors with a brilliant century, scoring 132 runs. His efforts, along with contributions from other batsmen, propelled New Zealand to 402 runs. This gave the Kiwis a commanding lead of 356 runs, putting India under immense pressure. Ravindra’s century and his unbeaten form in the second innings cemented his position as a key player in New Zealand’s victory.
India’s Comeback in Second Innings Falls Short
India fought back in their second innings, with solid performances from their top-order batsmen. Yashasvi Jaiswal (35), Rohit Sharma (52), Virat Kohli (70), Rishabh Pant (99), and Sarfraz Khan (150) all contributed half-centuries, helping India erase the deficit and set a target of 107 runs for New Zealand to chase. Despite this strong comeback, India’s hopes were dashed as the team collapsed after the new ball was taken, with Matt Henry and William Orook once again proving lethal.
New Zealand Chase Down 107 Runs to Win by 8 Wickets
Chasing a modest target of 107 runs, New Zealand lost Tom Latham early for a duck. Devon Conway also fell cheaply for 17 runs, but Will Young and Rachin Ravindra took charge and ensured a smooth chase. Young played a confident knock, scoring 48 runs with six boundaries and a six, while Ravindra, unbeaten on 39, hit six boundaries to guide New Zealand to victory in just 27.4 overs. Jasprit Bumrah was the only Indian bowler to take two wickets, but it wasn’t enough to stop the visitors from clinching the match.
Matt Henry and William Orook Shine with the Ball
The stars of the match for New Zealand were undoubtedly Matt Henry and William Orook. Henry took five wickets in India’s first innings and followed it up with three in the second. Orook was equally effective, taking four wickets in the first innings and three in the second, turning the game in New Zealand’s favor.
Rachin Ravindra’s Century Steals the Show
Rachin Ravindra, who scored 132 runs in New Zealand’s first innings and remained unbeaten in the second, was the backbone of the team’s batting. His century was instrumental in giving the Kiwis a massive lead, and his composed performance in the second innings sealed the win. Ravindra’s efforts not only earned him praise but also marked him as a rising star in world cricket.
India’s Battle Ends in Disappointment
Despite a spirited fightback in the second innings, India’s poor performance in the first innings ultimately cost them the game. Five of their batsmen were dismissed for zero, and they couldn’t recover from the early collapse. While Sarfraz Khan’s brilliant 150 and Rishabh Pant’s near-century gave fans hope, the Kiwis’ bowling attack proved too strong.
Final Scores:
- India: 46 & 462
- New Zealand: 402 & 110/2
- Result: New Zealand won by 8 wickets
In an extraordinary performance, New Zealand defeated India by 8 wickets in the first Test match of the series. The victory marked New Zealand’s first Test win on Indian soil in 35 years, dating back to 1988.
Player of the Match: Rachin Ravindra
Rachin Ravindra was named Player of the Match for his outstanding contribution. He scored a century in New Zealand’s first innings (132 runs) and remained unbeaten in the second innings with 39 runs, playing a crucial role in securing the historic win for the Kiwis.
New Zealand’s Historic Victory
This Test match will go down in history as one of New Zealand’s finest moments in cricket. After 35 years, they have finally won a Test match on Indian soil, a feat that will be remembered for years to come. With outstanding performances from Rachin Ravindra, Matt Henry, and William Orook, the Kiwis outclassed the Indian team to secure a well-deserved win.
