India’s top-order batsmen put up a determined fight to salvage their opening Test match against New Zealand after early setbacks. Batting under challenging conditions, the Indian openers struggled against the disciplined Kiwi bowling attack, losing wickets quickly. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill both fell cheaply, leaving India vulnerable at 34/2 within the first hour of play. New Zealand’s seamers, led by Tim Southee and Trent Boult, exploited the swing-friendly conditions to trouble the Indian batters.
Source:-bbc news
In response, India’s No. 3, Cheteshwar Pujara, played a patient and gritty innings, trying to anchor the side through the early collapse. His traditional approach of grinding down the bowlers proved crucial in halting New Zealand’s momentum. However, Pujara was soon joined by Virat Kohli, who came to the crease determined to take charge of the innings. Kohli, known for his resilience in adverse conditions, mixed defense with attacking strokes, relieving some pressure on India.
Source:- news 18
Kohli and Pujara put together a crucial partnership, which not only stabilized India’s innings but also defied the New Zealand bowlers’ consistent line and length. Their partnership gave India hope of reaching a respectable total after a rocky start. However, the overcast conditions and New Zealand’s tight bowling ensured the game remained finely balanced.
As the day progressed, the Indian middle-order would need to continue the fight, especially with the likes of Ajinkya Rahane and Rishabh Pant waiting in the wings. With a formidable Kiwi bowling lineup, India’s top order knows they cannot afford further collapses.
Heading into the second day, India will hope to post a competitive total and put pressure on New Zealand in their first innings. However, the game remains evenly poised, with both teams battling for early control in this crucial opening Test.
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