Twitter Reactions: Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant lead India to momentary hope, onus on bowlers

New Zealand need 107 runs on Day 5 to win the Test match.

By Koustav Sengupta

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3 Min Read

Rishabh Pant
info
Rishabh Pant. (Source - BCCI)

After New Zealand managed to take a 356-run lead in the first innings, the game was thought to be over for team India. However, in recent times, the Rohit Sharma-led side has never backed out of any challenge and the Test against the Kiwis at the M Chinnswamy Stadium, was one of the best examples. Captain Rohit and Virat Kohli gave a good start on Day 3, which Sarfaraz Khan and Rishabh Pant capitalized on Day 4 and helped India take a lead, which looked extremely difficult at one point.

Neither of the cricketers compromised their batting style as they batted aggressively. Sarfaraz, who made his debut earlier in the year against England, hit his maiden Test century while Pant made 99 runs to help India take a lead. They stitched a partnership of 177 runs, which brought the hosts back into the contest and gave fans the hope of a possible win but their dismissals hurt India’s momentum as the lower middle order and tailenders failed to contribute.

Matt Henry and William ORourke were the stars with the ball for New Zealand, as they picked three wickets each in the second innings. Meanwhile, India’s last six played scored a combined 38 runs and that may cost them the game, even after a stunning comeback. There were expectations from KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja to step up as the platform was set but they made 12 and five runs respectively.

New Zealand restricted India to 462 runs in the third innings. They need 107 runs to win the game as all eyes and eyes will be now on India’s bowling unit, especially Jasprit Bumrah, who will be crucial for the team on Day 5 if the conditions remain overcast. 

Check Out - WATCH: Rishabh Pant gets down on one knee to launch 107-metre maximum, leaves Kiwis baffled

Meanwhile, umpires called off the day due to bad light, which infuriated the Indian team. Rohit spoke in length with both umpires Paul Reifell and Micheal Gough but they didn’t allow the game to start. Soon a heavy shower followed, which helped the umpires to call off the day without much pressure from the Indian team management.

Meanwhile, here's how fans reacted to Day 4 of the India vs New Zealand first Test:

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India vs New Zealand 2024IndiaNew ZealandMatt HenryRishabh PantSarfaraz Khan