In Short

Sarfaraz struck a majestic 150 while Pant made a brisk 99

India were all out for 462 in their second innings

New Zealand need 107 runs to win the opening Test

Test cricket's inherent unpredictability and drama were on full display as New Zealand turned the tables on India's audacious comeback on a dramatic Day 4 of the first Test at Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium. After being bowled out for an embarrassing 46 in the first innings, India fought their way back, only to be thwarted by a late charge from the New Zealand seamers with the second new ball.

Sarfaraz Khan played a majestic knock of 150, and Rishabh Pant added a brisk 99 as India were bowled out for 462 in their second innings, setting New Zealand a modest target of 107 on day four of the opening Test. With only 107 runs needed on the final day, the Kiwis are on the brink of their first win in India in 36 years.

New Zealand's last victory in India came in 1989 when Sir Richard Hadlee's all-round brilliance secured a 136-run win at the Wankhede Stadium. Hadlee took 10 wickets in the match, showcasing his legendary skills in a dominant performance. Now, decades later, the current New Zealand side is on the verge of winning a rare Test in India.

The Test match, unfolding with all the elements that make the format special, saw India riding high on the back of a blistering 177-run partnership between Sarfaraz (150) and Pant (99). This stand came at a rapid rate of 5.03 runs per over, shifting the balance firmly in India’s favor. However, New Zealand's ability to strike back in a 10.2-over burst with the second new ball, claiming three crucial wickets and reducing India to 82 for 6 effectively, reasserted their presence in the game.

Despite New Zealand’s initial helplessness in the face of the assault from Sarfaraz and Pant, their unwavering persistence with the new ball proved pivotal. The late-afternoon strike, particularly the dismissals of Sarfaraz (150) and Pant (99), showcased how quickly momentum can shift in Test cricket. Their onslaught had rendered New Zealand defenseless with the old ball, but the introduction of the new ball turned the tide once more.

Sarfaraz, with his unorthodox late cuts and deft touch, turned his maiden Test hundred into a 150. His brilliance with the bat, manipulating gaps in the field and playing with cheeky audacity, left New Zealand’s bowlers searching for answers. He repeatedly dissected the field, particularly with some masterful late cuts that bisected deep third and point, making him a constant thorn in the visitors’ side.

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