Fri Oct 18 09:59:22 UTC 2024: ## India Stumble as New Zealand Dominate Day 3 in Bengaluru Test

**Bengaluru, India -** The first Test between India and New Zealand took a dramatic turn on day three, with the visitors seizing control and building a commanding lead. New Zealand, led by a magnificent century from Rachin Ravindra (134*), finished the day with a massive 356-run lead, leaving India with a daunting task in their second innings.

The day began with New Zealand resuming their innings on 180/3. While India managed to take four wickets in the morning session, Ravindra’s relentless assault on the Indian bowling attack proved too much to handle. He shared a crucial 137-run partnership with Tim Southee (65), who also played a significant role in extending the Kiwis’ lead.

India’s bowlers, particularly Ravindra Jadeja, who picked up three wickets, tried to stem the tide, but they couldn’t prevent Ravindra from reaching his century.

After lunch, the visitors continued to pile on the runs, with Southee and Ravindra hitting several boundaries and a six each. The Indian bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, and by the end of the day, New Zealand had amassed 402 runs, leaving India with a mountain to climb.

India’s second innings began cautiously, with openers Rohit Sharma (27) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (29) navigating the New Zealand bowlers with care. However, the task ahead seems monumental, and the Indian team will need a remarkable comeback in order to salvage the Test.

**Key Highlights:**

* Rachin Ravindra scored a magnificent 134, his second Test century, to power New Zealand’s dominance.
* Tim Southee (65) played an important role, smashing three fours and three sixes.
* India’s bowlers struggled to contain the New Zealand batting, with Ravindra Jadeja taking three wickets.
* India’s second innings got off to a careful start, with Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal looking to build a solid foundation.
* New Zealand finished the day with a massive 356-run lead, leaving India with a daunting task.

The fourth day promises to be crucial, with India needing to bat exceptionally well to salvage a draw, let alone win the match.

Read More