India vs New Zealand: 3 major reasons behind India's defeat in the 1st Test

It was a challenging outing for Rohit Sharma’s Team India as they faced an eight-wicket defeat against New Zealand in the first Test at Bengaluru on Sunday. After winning the toss, India chose to bat first but endured a disastrous first innings, collapsing for just 46 runs. The Kiwi bowlers were relentless, capitalizing on the conditions to dismantle the Indian batting order. In response, New Zealand showcased their batting strength, posting an impressive total of 402 runs. In their second innings, India showed resilience, spearheaded by Sarfaraz Khan’s remarkable 150. Rishabh Pant contributed a near-century with 99 runs, while Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma added valuable scores of 70 and 52, respectively. Despite their efforts, the team managed to establish only a 106-run lead as they approached the final day of the Test.

In their run chase, New Zealand faced early setbacks with the loss of openers Tom Latham for a duck and Devon Conway, who scored just 17 runs. However, Will Young and Rachin Ravindra steadied the innings, guiding the Kiwis to a comfortable eight-wicket victory. Young finished unbeaten on 48, while Ravindra contributed 39 not out, showcasing their resilience and skill.

The first day of the India vs New Zealand Test was marred by rain, resulting in a complete washout. However, the teams made up for the lost time, delivering an exciting contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Despite the thrilling match, India faces pressing concerns, particularly as they prepare for a demanding season ahead, which includes a challenging five-match Test series in Australia. The team will need to reflect on their performance and make necessary adjustments to regain their footing and address the shortcomings displayed in this match. With the pressure mounting, it's crucial for India to bounce back and build momentum as they look forward to the challenges that lie ahead in the international cricket calendar.

India vs New Zealand: 3 big reasons for India's loss in Bengaluru

1. Opting to bat first after winning the toss

Day 1 of the Bengaluru Test was completely washed out due to rain, and India’s decision to bat first on Day 2 in overcast conditions turned disastrous. The hosts were bundled out for a mere 46 runs, marking their lowest-ever Test total at home and the third-lowest total in their Test history. This stunning collapse resurrected memories of the infamous Adelaide Test in 2020, when India was dismissed for just 36 runs against Australia. New Zealand’s bowling attack, led by Matt Henry, wreaked havoc, taking 5 wickets for just 15 runs. William O’Rourke contributed significantly with 4 for 22, while Tim Southee added a wicket for just 8 runs.

It was a rare and shocking batting failure for India, as five players, including prominent figures like Virat Kohli and KL Rahul, failed to score, all getting dismissed for ducks. Rishabh Pant emerged as the top scorer with just 20 runs, underscoring the magnitude of the collapse.

“We will take the positives and move forward. There are guys who have been in this situation before. We lost a game against England and won four games after that. Two Test matches to go and we know exactly what is needed from each one of us. We will try and put our best game forward,” said Indian captain Rohit Sharma during the post-match presentation ceremony. 

2. India’s batting collapse, from 408/4 to 462 all out

India's top-order batters showed marked improvement in the second innings after their disastrous first outing. However, all their hard work unraveled when the team suffered a crucial batting collapse, particularly after the wicket of Sarfaraz Khan. Expectations were high for all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin to build on the momentum established by Sarfaraz and the others, but both players underperformed significantly.

The turning point came when William O’Rourke dismissed Jadeja, shifting the game's momentum firmly in New Zealand's favor. Ashwin followed soon after, dismissed by Matt Henry. Despite reviewing his LBW decision, Ashwin's challenge proved futile, as the Hawkeye technology indicated it was an umpire's call, with the ball clipping the top of the leg stump. For India to secure a 200-plus lead, it was imperative for Ashwin and Jadeja to form a strong partnership, reminiscent of their crucial stand against Bangladesh. Unfortunately, that partnership never materialized, leaving India in a precarious position.

3. KL Rahul's twin failures

KL Rahul's recent form has become a significant concern following the Test match against New Zealand. Although he managed to score a half-century in the Duleep Trophy match for India A and followed it with another fifty in the Kanpur Test against Bangladesh, his performance in Bengaluru was disappointing. Rahul registered scores of 0 and 12, raising questions about his place in the India playing XI for the upcoming second Test.

Adding to the uncertainty is the expected return of Shubman Gill, who missed the first Test due to neck stiffness. Following the match, Gill was seen practicing on the center wicket, suggesting he is fit for selection. His inclusion would likely put Rahul’s spot in jeopardy, especially given Sarfaraz Khan's impressive form—he scored a century in the second innings, reinforcing the need for consistent match-winners in the team. With the stakes high, the pressure is mounting on Rahul. The competition for spots in the batting order is intensifying, and if he fails to deliver in the next opportunity, it could mean a significant shift in India’s lineup for the Pune Test.