New Zealand Ends 36-Year Drought with Historic Win Over India in Bengaluru

In a thrilling turn of events, New Zealand secured a historic victory over India in Bengaluru, marking their first Test win on Indian soil in 36 years. The Kiwis triumphed by eight wickets in a rain-affected Test, chasing down a modest target of 107 runs with minimal fuss. This victory, New Zealand’s third ever in India, was not just a personal triumph for the visitors but also a game filled with remarkable performances and dramatic moments.

 

The Final Push

Starting the final day needing just 107 runs, New Zealand’s chase didn’t go as smoothly as hoped. They lost a wicket on the second ball of the day, but opener Will Young stood firm against the hostile bowling of India’s Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Young, displaying patience and skill, remained unbeaten on 48. Rachin Ravindra, who had already impressed with a century in the first innings, followed up with a quick 39 not out, guiding New Zealand to victory. Bumrah took both wickets for India, but their efforts proved insufficient as the Kiwis marched to a comfortable win.

 

India’s First Innings Collapse

The match, which saw Day 1 completely washed out, began disastrously for India. The Indian batting lineup crumbled against New Zealand’s pace attack, managing only 46 runs, their third-lowest Test score ever and the lowest at home. Matt Henry was the star for New Zealand, tearing through India’s batting order with a sensational 5/15, while William O’Rourke added four wickets to seal a memorable collapse.

 

New Zealand Takes Control

In response, New Zealand seized the momentum, piling on 402 runs in their first innings. Devon Conway’s 91 set the foundation, but it was Rachin Ravindra’s century in his first Test match in India that truly took the game away from the hosts. Ravindra’s 134-run knock, supported by Tim Southee’s quick 65, pushed New Zealand to a commanding lead of 366 runs.

 

India’s Spirited Fightback

Despite being under immense pressure, India fought back valiantly in their second innings. Rohit Sharma led from the front with 52, while Virat Kohli redeemed himself with 70 after his first-innings duck. Youngster Sarfaraz Khan stood out with a brilliant 150, his maiden Test century, while Rishabh Pant narrowly missed out on a century, getting dismissed for 99. Their partnership gave India hope as they posted 462 runs, but New Zealand’s bowlers once again found their rhythm, bundling out India’s lower order with the second new ball.

 

Sealing the Victory

Set a small target of 107, New Zealand had to navigate through tricky conditions on the final day. Despite early jitters, they held their nerves, and Rachin Ravindra and Will Young ensured a historic win.

 

A Landmark Moment

This victory marked New Zealand’s third Test win in India, their first since 1988. The match also highlighted India’s vulnerability at home, with 2024 becoming only the second year in two decades where they have lost more than one Test at home.

 

New Zealand’s clinical performance in Bengaluru has etched their name in history, ending a 36-year drought and reinforcing their credentials as a formidable Test side.