Test cricket, in its purest form, witnessed a breathtaking sequence of events during the India vs New Zealand Test match 2024. A high-octane partnership between Sarfaraz Khan and Rishabh Pant nearly brought India back from the brink, only for a dramatic collapse to set New Zealand a target of 107 runs to win. This match is poised to end a 36-year wait for New Zealand to claim a Test victory in India. For complete details of this riveting series, you can check out the New Zealand Tour of India 2024-25 series page.
Sarfaraz and Pant’s 177-Run Stand: A Beacon of Hope
At the heart of India’s fightback was the dazzling partnership between Sarfaraz Khan and Rishabh Pant. Coming into day four, India was at 231 for 3, and the pair continued from where they left off. Sarfaraz’s impishness, combined with Pant’s audacity, meant that the Indian innings were brimming with confidence.
Sarfaraz, who turned his maiden Test century into a well-earned 150, displayed a blend of cheeky strokes and smart placements. His ability to bisect fielders at will, including a nonchalant ramp shot off the first ball of the day, was a masterclass in batting innovation. Pant, despite his limitations in running between the wickets due to a surgically repaired knee, matched Sarfaraz in sheer stroke play, especially with his brutal slog-sweeping of fast bowlers.
Their 177-run stand in just over 35 overs shifted the momentum squarely in India’s favor. It seemed as if they might pull off the improbable, attempting to win a Test after being bowled out for under 50 in the first innings—a feat only achieved once in Test cricket history. For the latest match reports and series results, check the India vs New Zealand 2024 fixtures and results.
New Zealand’s Last Roll of the Dice: The Second New Ball
However, just as India looked set for a big score, New Zealand found their way back into the game with the second new ball. This Test match became a tale of collapses and comebacks. After enduring a battering for 80 overs, New Zealand’s bowlers, particularly William O’Rourke and Matt Henry, took full advantage of the fresh ball.
In just 20 overs with the new ball, New Zealand’s seamers generated 43 false shots from the Indian batters. O’Rourke’s fiery spell brought back memories of classical fast bowling with a short but destructive spell of 3-3-0-3. Henry complimented him, finding the perfect seam to take out the last three wickets.
The collapse saw India lose 7 wickets for just 54 runs, a dramatic fall after the dominance displayed by Sarfaraz and Pant. The second new ball was instrumental in this collapse, a stark reminder of the challenges Test cricket presents when fresh conditions come into play. To see the complete squad lists for both teams, visit the New Zealand Tour of India 2024-25 squads.
Pant’s Agonizing Dismissal: One Run Short of a Century
A standout moment came when Pant, on 99, fell victim to O’Rourke. After showing his typical aggressive intent with a slog-swept six that had the crowd in awe, he was dismissed by a ball that kicked off the surface, taking the bottom edge onto his stumps. It was Pant’s seventh dismissal in the 90s, leaving him with six Test centuries to his name but agonizingly close to a seventh.
Pant’s innings was an illustration of Test cricket’s highs and lows. His aggressive approach, which saw him hit five sixes, placed him among the top six hitters in Test history for India, surpassing even the legendary Kapil Dev.
Sarfaraz’s Resilience and Leadership
Sarfaraz Khan, on the other hand, carried on with determination, pushing the score with innovative strokes like late cuts and ramps. His ability to control the innings kept the pressure on New Zealand. However, his eventual dismissal for 150, lofting a catch to cover as the ball seamed away, marked the beginning of India’s end.
While Sarfaraz’s innings were cut short, his influence on the match cannot be understated. His remarkable form, evident in this being his 11th first-class score of 150 or more, proves his readiness for the international stage.
New Zealand Eye Historic Test Win in India
With India bowled out for 462, New Zealand now needs just 107 runs to claim their first Test win in India in 36 years. Despite India’s dramatic second-innings resurgence, New Zealand has the upper hand going into the final day.
The pitch, which seemed lifeless for much of the day, suddenly sprang to life under the new ball. Conditions will be key as India hopes to produce a miracle with the ball. However, with the target so small, it’s hard to see New Zealand letting this one slip through their fingers. For further reading on this dramatic match, check out ESPN’s full scorecard of the game.
For fans of Test cricket, this match has been a rollercoaster of emotions—a testament to the unpredictability and drama the format offers.
What’s Next for India in the New Zealand Tour?
India’s collapse has raised significant questions about their ability to handle pressure in critical moments, especially against fresh bowling conditions. Despite the resilience shown by Sarfaraz Khan and Rishabh Pant, India will need to reflect on their performance before the next match in the New Zealand Tour of India 2024-25.
To follow the complete series and keep up with future fixtures, check out the New Zealand Tour of India 2024-25 Fixtures and Results and series squad updates.
Can India Turn It Around? The Drama Isn’t Over Yet in India vs New Zealand Test Match 2024
As we look ahead to the conclusion of the India vs New Zealand Test match 2024, the question remains—can India bounce back from this? New Zealand is on the verge of a historic win, but India has the talent and fight to push back. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting end to this unforgettable Test match.
