India Struggles on Day 1: IND vs NZ Test Highlights
The first day of the first Test between India and New Zealand in Kanpur saw the visitors dominate proceedings, leaving the hosts with a mountain to climb on Day 2. India's batting woes continued, and New Zealand's bowlers exploited the conditions perfectly to restrict the home side to a paltry 157/6 at stumps.
Here are the key highlights from a day of toil for Team India:
A Slow and Steady Start
India's opening pair of Mayank Agarwal and Shubman Gill started cautiously, facing a new-ball attack from Tim Southee and Kyle Jamieson. However, the pitch offered assistance to the bowlers, and both openers struggled to find their rhythm.
Jamieson's Double Blow
The breakthrough came when Kyle Jamieson trapped Mayank leg before wicket for a painstaking 12. Soon after, Shubman Gill followed his teammate back to the pavilion, edging a delivery from Jamieson to the keeper for 28. The early wickets left India reeling at 49/2.
Kohli's Fightback
Virat Kohli, making his 100th Test appearance, joined Cheteshwar Pujara and looked to steady the ship. The duo put on a crucial 53-run partnership, with Kohli displaying his usual grit and determination. However, Kohli's valiant effort came to an end when he was caught behind off the bowling of Williamson for 36.
Pujara's Stubborn Resistance
Pujara continued to bat resolutely, reaching his half-century and providing much-needed stability to the Indian innings. However, he was eventually dismissed by Jamieson for 54, leaving India at 116/4.
Late Wickets and A Frustrating Finish
The late order batsmen struggled against the relentless bowling attack. Ajinkya Rahane and Shreyas Iyer fell cheaply, adding to India's woes. While Ravindra Jadeja and Wriddhiman Saha showed some resistance, the damage had already been done. India ended the day at 157/6, with a long way to go to recover from this shaky start.
Key Takeaways from Day 1:
- New Zealand's bowling was exceptional: The pace duo of Jamieson and Southee, along with the guile of Williamsson, exploited the conditions perfectly to keep India on the back foot.
- India's batting woes continue: India's struggles with the bat have been a recurring theme in recent times, and they continued to show signs of weakness on Day 1.
- Kohli's milestone: While India struggled, Virat Kohli reached the milestone of 100 Test appearances, making him only the 12th Indian to achieve this feat.
Day 2 promises to be crucial for India. They need to bat with more intent and build a substantial lead if they want to make a comeback in this Test match.
Keywords: India vs New Zealand Test, Kanpur Test, Day 1 Highlights, IND vs NZ, Kyle Jamieson, William Williamson, Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara, Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Indian Cricket Team, New Zealand Cricket Team, Test Cricket.