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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 in their second innings of the first Test. Despite a promising start, India faltered under pressure, leaving New Zealand needing just 107 run🌞s to secure victory.
Promising partnership between Sarfaraz Khan and Rishabh Pant
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 1🦋94 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 wo𝓀uld have been his seventh Tඣest hundred.
Also WATCH: Sarfaraz Khan shouts and jumps in comical mix-up with Rishab♛h Pant in Bengaluru Test
India’s batting collapse
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.
Here’s how fans reacted:
Ye banda 🍰single handedly Desh ko Happiness Index me niche laa deta hai 𓃲
— Piyush Sharma (@misterpiyush)
Gautam Gambhir looking at KL Rahul
12(16)— Ifreem Siddiqui (@beingifreem_s)
Well played Sarfaraz. Proud of you👌👌👏👏
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281)
🥶Kohli
He literally said – this is not fair , we won’t leave the field call them back— Atharv Mishra 🇮🇳 (@wtf_Atharv)
Bad light brings day four to an early concl💃usion with New🌠 Zealand on top 💪 | :
— ICC (@ICC)
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.
— Gautam (@AnkitGautam2004)
Every ICT f♌an will agree that we all were Sarfaraz Khan at this point 😭 🦂
— Kriti Singh (@kritiitweets)
1 रन से दिल टूट गया 💔
Keep everything asi༺de, This is the GREATEST COMEBACK❣️
Rishabh Pant Missed his Well Deserved 100 just♉ by 1 Run. 💔 KL Rahul
— Ashad 🇮🇳 (@iam_ashad)
Just imagine if kohli is captainiꩲng🌠 for india at this moment. 🥶🔥
— Jacksy (@Anantt18_)
Team India be like. | |
— Rajabets 🇮🇳👑 (@smileagainraja)
