In a stunning turn of events, India suffered a catastrophic batting collapse in the first innings of the first Test against New Zealand at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The team, after opting to bat first, was bowled out for a mere 46 runs, marking their third-lowest Test total ever. This humiliating performance also represents India’s lowest score against New Zealand in the history of the longest format.
The collapse was swift and brutal. India lost three wickets for just 10 runs within the first few overs, setting the tone for a disastrous day. Key players, including Virat Kohli, Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, KL Rahul, and R Ashwin, were dismissed without scoring, adding to the agony of the Indian fans. The remaining four wickets tumbled within the first 30 minutes of the second session, completing the shocking implosion.
This dismal performance is reminiscent of India’s previous lowest Test scores: 36 against Australia in 2020 (Adelaide), 42 against England in 1976 (Lord’s), 58 against Australia in 1947 (Brisbane), and 58 against England in 1952 (Manchester). It is also worth noting that India’s previous lowest score against New Zealand was 81 runs in Wellington back in 1976.
This disastrous start has sent shockwaves through the Indian cricket team and its supporters. The question now arises: can India bounce back from this humiliating defeat and salvage the series? Only time will tell if the team can overcome this setback and regroup for the second Test. The spotlight will now be firmly on the Indian bowlers to deliver a strong performance and give their team a chance to compete in this series.