Thu Oct 17 01:20:23 UTC 2024: ## India-New Zealand Test Match Begins With a Washout
**Bengaluru, October 17, 2024:** The much-anticipated first Test match between India and New Zealand in Bengaluru has begun with a resounding disappointment – a complete washout on the first day. Persistent rain since Wednesday morning forced the umpires to call off the day’s play at 2:30 PM, leaving the teams and fans without a single ball bowled.
Even the toss couldn’t take place due to the unplayable conditions. Umpires inspecting the pitch at 2 PM observed that the wicket was drenched on both sides. With heavy rain continuing, the decision to abandon the day’s play was inevitable.
The incessant rain over the past two days also prevented the installation of Hawk-Eye cameras, delaying the match by a further 90 minutes had it gone ahead. Despite the unfavorable weather, a sizeable crowd turned up at the stadium, getting a glimpse of Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal practicing in the nets.
The weather forecast for Thursday also predicts rain, raising concerns for the second day’s play. To compensate for the lost day, the remaining four days of the match will see 98 overs each. The match will start 15 minutes earlier and end 15 minutes later. An additional half-hour can be added in case of a slow over-rate. The toss is scheduled for 8:45 AM on Thursday.
First Piper 