On October 18, Friday, after lunch on Day 3 of the Bengaluru Test, New Zealand smashed a record that had stood for twelve years by taking a 299-run lead against India. The match continued to elude India despite a fantastic hundred from Rachin Ravindra and a devastating performance from Tim Southee.
India began Day 3 on the back foot, needing quick wickets after being bowled out for their lowest score ever at home. Daryl Mitchell’s first breakthrough of the day came from Mohammed Siraj.
Tom Blundell was then dismissed by Jasprit Bumrah as India appeared to be attempting to reenter the match. Rachin was still tickling along nicely, but Jadeja was picking up Glenn Phillips and Matt Henry, so he was losing support from the other end.
Rachin could then begin playing his shots since Southee was able to nullify the Indian spinners and offer some significant help from the other end. In 49 off 50 balls, Southee would knock three fours and three sixes to stay undefeated, while Rachin quickly reached his second hundred.
India conceded a lead of over 200 in a Test match:
India has been forced to the verge of destruction by New Zealand’s commanding batting performance, as their lead has grown to almost 300 runs. A 12-year record for India could be broken by this incredible performance.
In a Test match against England at the Eden Gardens in 2012, India last gave up a lead of more than 200 runs when they were behind by 207 runs. India’s difficulties against New Zealand’s formidable batting order are emphasized by this terrible defensive display.
This achievement also signifies the first time that a side other than England has gained a 200-run lead against India since January 2012. India now has an uphill fight to win the match due to New Zealand’s outstanding batting assault that has placed them in a commanding position.
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