New Zealand‘s Devon Conway delivered a stellar performance with the bat in the first Test against India at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The opening batter asserted himself against the Indian bowlers from the outset, quickly helping his team gain a first-innings lead.
The left-hander applied pressure, striking the ball powerfully around the field. Conway challenged the Indian bowlers and played at a rapid pace, reaching a fantastic half-century and then continuing to play aggressive shots as he aimed for a century.
However, his innings was cut short by Ravichandran Ashwin‘s brilliance. The off-spinner bowled a full delivery from around the wicket, and Conway, attempting a premeditated shot, got tangled up and failed to connect, losing his middle and leg stumps.
Notably, Virat Kohli’s celebration after Conway’s dismissal drew attention, as the Indian star gave an enthusiastic send-off to the New Zealand batter. You can watch the video here:
Timber strike, ft. R Ashwin! 👌 👌
Match Updates ▶️ https://t.co/8qhNBrrtDF#TeamIndia | #INDvNZ | @ashwinravi99 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/2T521mKJj8
— BCCI (@BCCI) October 17, 2024
Devon Conway fell short of his well-earned century by 9 runs
Conway must be disappointed with his dismissal, falling short of a well-deserved century by 9 runs. He scored 91 runs off 105 balls, leading his team to a first-innings advantage of over 100 runs.
The Indian team executed a well-planned strategy to get him out. Conway had attacked the spinners with sweeps and had been aggressive against Ravichandran Ashwin in his initial spell, prompting skipper Rohit Sharma to take Ashwin off the attack.
However, Ashwin anticipated Conway’s aggressive approach upon returning for his second spell and expected him to attempt a reverse sweep. He outsmarted Conway, denying him the century just a few overs before the close of play.
New Zealand had outstanding gameplay on Day 2
New Zealand had an outstanding performance, clearly outplaying the India National Cricket Team on Day 2. They first dismissed the Rohit Sharma-led side for just 46 runs, then followed up with an impressive batting display in the first innings.
Alongside Conway, Will Young contributed significantly with 33 runs. Rachin Ravindra (22*) and Daryl Mitchell (14*) ended the day strongly for New Zealand. At stumps on Day 2, the visitors stood at 180 for three, holding a lead of 134 runs.
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