Bengaluru: India's batting woes continued as they were reduced to 13 for 3 in 12.4 overs against New Zealand on a cloudy morning at Chinnaswamy Stadium when rain interrupted play on the second Day of the First Test here on Thursday.
The conditions, tailor-made for seam and swing, proved too much for the Indian top-order as New Zealand’s bowlers capitalised on the early moisture.
Rohit Sharma, who had opted to bat first despite the overcast skies, fell early for 2, bowled by Tim Southee as he attempted a drive, leaving the Indian innings in disarray.
Virat Kohli followed suit, departing for a duck as he gloved a sharp delivery from William O'Rourke to leg gully, marking his second consecutive duck against the Kiwis. Sarfaraz Khan, too, couldn't get off the mark, falling to a brilliant catch by Devon Conway off Matt Henry’s bowling.
At the time of the rain delay, Rishabh Pant (3*) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (8*) were attempting to rebuild the innings, but the persistent drizzle halted their progress. The covers were on, with the SubAir system in place to manage any excess water on the outfield.
New Zealand’s bowlers were in complete control, exploiting the movement in the air and off the pitch. Matt Henry, especially, was a constant threat, causing problems for the Indian batsmen with his probing deliveries.
The decision to bat first raised eyebrows, given the conditions favouring the bowlers. However, the Indian camp cited the dry pitch underneath the surface, expected to take turn later in the match, as the reason for their choice. Batting last on this track could be difficult, which likely influenced their decision.
With India struggling at 13/3, they will hope the weather eases to resume play and allow Pant and Jaiswal to steady the ship. For now, New Zealand are firmly in the driver's seat.
Brief Scores
India 13/3 in 12.4 overs (Pant 3*, Jaiswal 8*; Matt Henry 2/6, Southee 1/2)
