Thu Oct 17 16:45:48 UTC 2024: ## New Zealand Dominate Day Two in Bengaluru Test, India Suffer Historic Collapse
**Bengaluru, India:** New Zealand has taken firm control of the first Test match against India, building a commanding 134-run lead at stumps on day two. The Kiwis capitalized on a historic batting collapse by India, who were bowled out for a paltry 46 runs, their lowest ever innings total at home in Test cricket.
The day began with India opting to bat first, a decision that proved disastrous as the New Zealand bowlers, particularly Mark Henry (5/15) and William O’Rourke (4/22), exploited the overcast conditions to dismantle the Indian batting lineup.
India’s woes were compounded by a left knee injury to Rishabh Pant, who limped off the field after being struck by a delivery from Ravindra Jadeja.
Devon Conway, with a determined 91, spearheaded New Zealand’s response, guiding the visitors to 180/3 at the close of play. Conway displayed remarkable composure and footwork against the Indian spinners, surpassing his fifty in just 54 balls.
The New Zealand bowlers continued their dominance in the second innings, with Tim Southee providing the initial breakthrough by dismissing Rohit Sharma with a nip-backer. The Indian batsmen struggled to cope with the disconcerting bounce generated by the New Zealand seamers.
Despite a fighting 20 from Pant, India’s batting woes continued, with Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, and Sarfaraz Khan all falling cheaply. The Indian team was ultimately bowled out before lunch, a disappointing performance reminiscent of their 36 all out against Australia in Adelaide three years ago.
The match now hangs in the balance as New Zealand enters day three with a significant advantage. India will need a monumental effort to salvage the Test and avoid a heavy defeat.
First Piper 