Thu Oct 17 08:00:23 UTC 2024: ## India Collapses to Lowest Ever Test Score on Home Soil, New Zealand Take Control in Bengaluru

**Bengaluru, India:** A shocking display of batting saw India crumble to a record-breaking low of 46 runs in the first Test against New Zealand, gifting the visitors a commanding lead at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.

The hosts were bowled out in just 31.2 overs, their third-lowest Test score ever and the lowest ever by a team on Indian soil. Five Indian batsmen were dismissed for ducks, highlighting a complete failure to adapt to the challenging conditions.

Matt Henry was the architect of India’s downfall, claiming a career-best 5 wickets, while William O’Rourke snagged 4 wickets. India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, was clean bowled for 2 runs by Tim Southee, setting the tone for a disastrous day.

The match had been delayed by rain on the first day, allowing New Zealand to prepare a pitch that favored their bowlers. However, even considering the challenging conditions, the Indian batting performance was widely criticized for its lack of application and poor shot selection.

This is the 13th Test series between the two nations, and New Zealand, despite their previous record of not winning a bilateral Test series in India, have now gained a significant advantage. They will be looking to capitalize on this dominant position and secure a historic victory in this series.

The second day of the match also saw the debuts of Sarfaraz Khan, who replaced the injured Shubman Gill, and Kuldeep Yadav, who was included as the third spinner.

The second innings will begin soon with New Zealand looking to build a substantial lead and put further pressure on the Indian team.

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