In a gripping encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, New Zealand positioned themselves to take a 1-0 lead in the series after bowling India out for 462 runs in their second innings of the first Test. Despite a promising start, India faltered under pressure, leaving New Zealand needing just 107 runs to secure victory.
Sarfaraz Khan show and promising partnership
India began Day 4 on a high note, with Rishabh Pant and Sarfaraz Khan forming a formidable partnership that seemed to steer the team towards a competitive total. The duo put together an impressive 177-run stand for the fourth wicket, showcasing resilience after India’s dismal first innings of just 46 runs. Sarfaraz, making his mark with his maiden Test century, scored a blistering 150 off only 194 balls, adorned with 18 fours and three sixes. His performance not only lifted India from the depths of despair but also provided a solid foundation for their second innings.
Rishabh Pant’s nearly misses his century
Pant’s innings was nothing short of spectacular. Known for his aggressive batting style, he electrified the crowd with a massive 107-meter six off Tim Southee, a shot that left both teammates and opponents in awe. As he approached his century, Pant seemed unfazed by the pressure that often accompanies reaching such milestones. However, his innings came to an abrupt end when he was bowled by William O’Rourke for 99 runs, narrowly missing out on what would have been his seventh Test hundred.
Also WATCH: Sarfaraz Khan shouts and jumps in comical mix-up with Rishabh Pant in Bengaluru Test
Indian batting collapse changes the tide for New Zealand for good
Despite being well-placed at 438 for 6 at tea, India’s batting lineup crumbled in the final session. KL Rahul‘s struggles continued as he managed only 12 runs off 16 deliveries, further intensifying scrutiny over his position in the team. With wickets falling rapidly, India’s earlier momentum dissipated, and they were ultimately bowled out for 462.
With a lead of just 107 runs required to claim victory, New Zealand will enter Day 5 with confidence. Their bowlers capitalized on India’s collapse and will look to maintain that momentum as they chase down the target.
Twitter reactions:
Ye banda single handedly Desh ko Happiness Index me niche laa deta hai #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/6S1GFVHF7M
— Piyush Sharma (@misterpiyush) October 19, 2024
Gautam Gambhir looking at KL Rahul
12(16) #KLRahul #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/y6GKHkG09f— Ifreem Siddiqui (@beingifreem_s) October 19, 2024
Well played Sarfaraz. Proud of you👌👌👏👏 @BCCI #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/WahYBKnewP
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) October 19, 2024
🥶Kohli
He literally said – this is not fair , we won’t leave the field call them back #INDvNZL #IndvNZ #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/bES5IlBiUw— Atharv Mishra 🇮🇳 (@wtf_Atharv) October 19, 2024
Bad light brings day four to an early conclusion with New Zealand on top 💪#WTC25 | #INDvNZ: https://t.co/U8Cd1uQu5j pic.twitter.com/OKyEnMzG0a
— ICC (@ICC) October 19, 2024
What has he done to stay in the team.
Can’t Catch while fielding.
Can’t bat.
Can’t score runs even when the team needs him the most.
Can’t score runs even when team don’t need runs.
Boring player to watch.
No game awareness, nothing.KL Rahul for you guys.#INDvNZ #KLRahul pic.twitter.com/sPxbIjLk7z
— Gautam (@AnkitGautam2004) October 19, 2024
Every ICT fan will agree that we all were Sarfaraz Khan at this point 😭 #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/gLBAWnGaAA
— Kriti Singh (@kritiitweets) October 19, 2024
1 रन से दिल टूट गया 💔
Keep everything aside, This is the GREATEST COMEBACK❣️
Rishabh Pant Missed his Well Deserved 100 just by 1 Run. 💔#INDvNZ #RishabhPant #SarfarazKhan KL Rahul pic.twitter.com/nsFjDox1OU
— Ashad 🇮🇳 (@iam_ashad) October 19, 2024
Just imagine if kohli is captaining for india at this moment. 🥶🔥#INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/t2nvqHbfdU
— Jacksy (@Anantt18_) October 19, 2024
Team India be like.#TestCricket | #IndvNZ | #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/kPxdt3TWN3
— Rajabets 🇮🇳👑 (@smileagainraja) October 17, 2024
Also READ: IND vs NZ: Rishabh Pant misses century by a whisker; fans call him a ‘Nervous 90s Victim’
News Summary:
- IND vs NZ: India’s collapse after Sarfaraz Khan – Rishabh Pant show leaves New Zealand an easy target to chase on Day 4 of 1st Test
- Check all news and articles from the latest Cricket updates.