India’s 2024 Test series against New Zealand started in a disastrous fashion. The first day in Bengaluru was washed out by rain, and on the second day, India won the toss and opted to bat—a decision that proved to be a major blunder. Rohit Sharma and Co. succumbed to the Kiwi bowlers, managing to score only 46 runs. To worsen India’s situation, New Zealand’s openers capitalized on the momentum, tightening their grip on the game.
KL Rahul’s comical error handed Tom Latham a lifeline
However, India had a chance to break the partnership as early as the 13th over. Kiwi skipper Tom Latham, who had a slow start, edged a delivery from Mohammed Siraj while attempting a drive, and the ball traveled towards second slip. But KL Rahul, standing there, appeared hesitant, and the ball slipped past him. Pakistan’s fielders often make such comical mistakes, and netizens were quick to compare KL Rahul’s fielding to theirs.
KL Rahul raised his hands in an attempt to intercept the ball, but they were nowhere near its trajectory. He signaled that he hadn’t seen the ball clearly, which affected his judgment. Following this missed opportunity, captain Rohit Sharma displayed visible frustration.
The ball traveled between KL Rahul at second slip and Virat Kohli at first slip. Kohli had stepped back to give Rahul space for the catch. However, some netizens felt the ball was within Kohli’s reach and that he could have attempted it. But Sunil Gavaskar dismissed this notion, stating it was solely KL Rahul’s catch.
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However, India managed to dismiss Tom Latham in the 18th over, with Kuldeep Yadav successfully trapping him. Latham departed after scoring 15 runs off 49 balls. However, this dismissal did not disrupt Devon Conway’s rhythm, as he continued to bat aggressively. Unfortunately, Conway fell just 9 runs short of a well-deserved century; while attempting to reverse sweep R Ashwin, who cleverly adjusted his length, leaving the batter outfoxed.
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New Zealand ended the second day at 180 runs for the loss of 3 wickets. Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell will continue the visitors’ innings on the third day, holding a healthy lead of 134 runs. The match is starting to slip from India’s grasp. A strong performance from the Indian bowlers is essential on the third day to keep hopes alive.
